gemmule noun. ['dʒɛmju:l] M19.
[French from Latin gemmula dim. of GEMMA bud, jewel: see -ULE.]
1. Botany.
a. = PLUMULE noun 1. Only in M19.
b. A small gemma. L19.

2. Zoology. A gemma; spec. a tough-coated cluster of cells produced in sponges for development in later more favourable conditions. M19.

3. Biology (now Hist.). In the theory of pangenesis, a hypothetical minute hereditary particle transferred from the various cells in the body to the germ cells, to effect production of those cell types in the offspring. L19.

■ gemmu'liferous adjective bearing gemmules M19.

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