Gamete

Definition

A gamete is a mature haploid male or female germ cell that is able to unite with another of the opposite sex in sexual reproduction to form a zygote. In the context of the testicular reproductive system, a male gamete refers specifically to sperm.

Related terms

Sperm:

The male gamete produced in the testes, specialized for fertilizing an egg cell.

Zygote:

The initial cell formed when two gametes are joined by means of sexual reproduction; it represents the earliest developmental stage of a new organism.

Fertilization:

The process by which male and female gametes unite to form a zygote, marking the beginning of pregnancy