xanthophore (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈzænθəfɔːr/

Meaning and Usage

A xanthophore is a type of pigment cell found in various animals, particularly in the skin of certain reptiles, amphibians, and fish. These cells contain yellow pigments called xanthins and can contribute to the coloration of the organism. They are important in the study of animal coloration, camouflage, and are commonly discussed in biological and ecological contexts. The term is relatively specialized and is used more in written contexts, particularly in scientific literature.

Example Sentences

1. The scientist observed that the xanthophore in the chameleon changed hue depending on its surroundings.

2. Учёный заметил, что ксантофор у хамелеона изменял цвет в зависимости от окружающей среды.

3. Xanthophores play a crucial role in the camouflage of many aquatic species.

4. Ксантрофоры играют ключевую роль в маскировке многих водных видов.

5. Researchers have discovered that xanthophores can influence the brightness of an animal's coloration.

6. Исследователи обнаружили, что ксантрофоры могут влиять на яркость окраски животного.

Idiomatic Expressions

While the term "xanthophore" is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions, it fits within a niche scientific lexicon that can be relevant in discussions about coloration or adaptation in animals. Below are idioms that do not feature "xanthophore" but might be relevant in the context of animal coloration or biology:

1. "Caught red-handed"
2. The biologist was caught red-handed using xanthophores as a reference for her studies.

3. Биолога поймали на месте преступления, когда она использовала ксантрофоры в своих исследованиях.

4. "Show one’s true colors"

5. The xanthophores can show the true colors of the fish in their natural habitat.

6. Ксантрофоры могут показать истинные цвета рыбы в её естественной среде обитания.

7. "The grass is always greener on the other side"

8. Many think a bright xanthophore will make their fish stand out, but true beauty lies in adaptation.
9. Многие думают, что яркий ксантофор заставит их рыбу выделяться, но настоящая красота заключается в адаптации.

Etymology

The term "xanthophore" is derived from the Greek words "xanthos," meaning yellow, and "phoros," meaning bearer or carrier. The word has been used in biological contexts to describe these specific pigment cells since the early 20th century.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Pigment cell - Chromatophore (this term encompasses more types of pigment cells, including xanthophores)

Antonyms: - Colorless cell (in the context of describing a lack of pigment or coloration)

In summary, xanthophores are specialized pigment cells with a distinct role in the coloration of various animal species and are primarily discussed in scientific and ecological studies. The term holds a specific niche within biology and is not commonly found in everyday idiomatic expressions.