Fissiparous

/fɪˈsɪpərəs/ adjective

Definition

Reproducing or multiplying by splitting or dividing into smaller parts, as some organisms do instead of sexual reproduction.

Etymology

From Latin 'fissus' (split) + 'parere' (to produce). This scientific term emerged in the 18th century to describe asexual reproduction in biology where organisms divide themselves.

Kelly Says

Bacteria and some simple animals are fissiparous—they literally split themselves in half to make babies, which is why one bacterium can become a billion in just a few hours without needing a partner!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.