nem·a·to·cyst (n m  -t-s st , n-m t-)n. A capsule within specialized cells of certain coelenterates containing a barbed, threadlike tube that delivers a paralyzing sting. |
nematocyst
[nem′ətōsist′]
Etymology: Gk, nema, thread, eidos, form, kystis, bag
a capsule containing a barbed, threadlike process found in certain cells on the external surface of cnidarians, such as the Portuguese man-of-war and jellyfish. The nematocysts of some cnidarians can penetrate the skin and inject a poison, causing painful and potentially fatal injury.
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