Definition & Meaning: -Blast Word Root

The Word Root ‘-Blast’ originates from the Greek word ‘Blastos’, which means an immature or embryonic cell. This Word Root is often used in the context of biology and medicine to denote a precursor cell that has the potential to differentiate into various types of mature cells. Understanding the ‘-Blast’ root can provide insight into the development and growth processes within organisms.

One of the most commonly encountered words based on this root is ‘blastocyst’. Let’s break it down:

• Blast: Immature cell
• Cyst: A sac or vesicle

Thus, a ‘blastocyst’ refers to an early-stage mammalian embryo, consisting of a fluid-filled cavity surrounded by a layer of cells. This stage is crucial for implantation in the uterus.

Words Based on the -Blast Word Root

Commonly Used Words

• Blastocyst: An early-stage mammalian embryo with a fluid-filled cavity.
• Fibroblast: A cell that generates collagen and other fibers in connective tissue.
• Neuroblastoma: A malignant tumor arising from nerve cells, often in the adrenal gland.

Archaic Words

• Blastema: A mass of cells from which an organ or body part develops.
• Blastokinesis: The movement of the embryo into the yolk mass in certain insect eggs.

Technical Words/Jargon

• Blastoderm: The layer of cells forming on the yolk’s surface in avian or reptilian eggs, which gives rise to the embryo.
• Hematoblast: A progenitor blood cell.
• Megaloblastic anaemia: A type of anaemia caused by inhibition of DNA synthesis during red blood cell production.

Related Word Roots

• Cyto- (Greek): Meaning ‘cell’. Examples include:
  • Cytology: The study of cells.
  • Cytoplasm: The material within a cell, excluding the nucleus.
• Gen- (Greek): Meaning ‘origin’ or ‘birth’. Examples include:
  • Genesis: The mode of formation of something.
  • Genetics: The study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics.
• -oma (Greek): Meaning ‘tumor’ or ‘growth’. Examples include:
  • Carcinoma: A type of cancer arising in the epithelial tissue.
  • Sarcoma: A malignant tumor of connective or other non-epithelial tissue.