2. (Biol.) A small rounded body contained in the nucleus of a cell or a
protozoan.
It was termed by Agassiz the entoblast. In the protozoa, where it may
be situated on one side of the nucleus, it is sometimes called the
endoplastule, and is supposed to be concerned in the male part of the
reproductive process. See Nucleus.
Nu"cle*o*plasm (?), n. [Nucleus + -plasm.] (Biol.) The matter composing
the nucleus of a cell; the protoplasm of the nucleus; karyoplasma.
Nu`cle*o*plas"mic (?), a. (Biol.) Of or pertaining to nucleoplasm; --
esp. applied to a body formed in the developing ovum from the plasma of
the nucleus of the germinal vesicle.
Nu"cle*us (?), n.; pl. E. Nucleuses (#), L. Nuclei (#). [L., a kernel,
dim. fr. nux, nucis, nut. Cf. Newel post.]
1. A kernel; hence, a central mass or point about which matter is
gathered, or to which accretion is made; the central or material
portion; -- used both literally and figuratively.
It must contain within itself a nucleus of truth.