motility

NOUN

//moʊˈtɪləti//

the ability to move spontaneously and actively, consuming energy in the process

💡 Concept

tiny bacteria cells move actively in different directions through the water, propelling themselves with their flagella. Each bacterium changes direction spontaneously, creating swirling patterns as they consume nutrients. The movement requires energy as the cells actively navigate toward food sources. A scientist observes excitedly while pointing at the display screen showing the self-directed movement. Another researcher takes notes as they watch the organisms demonstrate their ability to move independently. the ability to move spontaneously and actively, consuming energy in the process

🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/moʊˈtɪləti/

🇬🇧 UK/məʊˈtɪləti/

🌳Etymology

Rootmotil

Suffix--ity

Origin

From Latin 'motilis' meaning 'movable' or 'capable of movement,' which derives from the verb 'movere' meaning 'to move.' The term developed as a scientific word to describe the ability of cells and organisms to move spontaneously.

🎵Rhyme

hostilityfertilitysterility

hostility

fertility

sterility

🔗Collocations

sperm motility

bacterial motility

reduced motility

intestinal motility

motility disorder

assess motility

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“The lazy sperm complained about having to improve their motility for the swimming competition.”

“Researchers are studying the motility patterns of cancer cells to understand metastasis.”

😄 Fun example

“The bacteria's impressive motility allowed them to escape from the antibiotic like tiny Olympic swimmers.”

“Gastrointestinal motility can be affected by stress and dietary factors.”

📚Related Words

Synonyms

mobilitymovementlocomotionkinesis

Antonyms

immotilitystasisparalysis

motilemotormotionmigratekinetic

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motility — the ability to move spontaneously and actively, consuming energy in the process

Example Sentences