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View synonyms for progenitor

progenitor

[proh-jen-i-ter]

noun

  1. a biologically related ancestor.

    a progenitor of the species.

  2. a person or thing that first indicates a direction, originates something, or serves as a model; predecessor; precursor.

    the progenitor of modern painting.



progenitor

/ prəʊˈdʒɛnɪtə /

noun

  1. a direct ancestor

  2. an originator or founder of a future development; precursor

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • progenitorial adjective
  • progenitorship noun
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Word History and Origins

Origin of progenitor1

1350–1400; Middle English < Latin prōgenitor the founder of a family. See pro- 1, genitor
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Word History and Origins

Origin of progenitor1

C14: from Latin: ancestor, from pro- 1 + genitor parent, from gignere to beget
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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Acting as a key regulator of neurodevelopment, NOVA1 helps determine how neural progenitor cells react to lead exposure, and disturbances in its activity are linked to neurological disorders.

Read more on Science Daily

The researchers measured SXR and RAR activity in mouse neural progenitor cells treated with the newly developed compounds and found that the hybrids maintained the biological functions of both parent molecules.

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The deluge of dust could help explain why astronomers have struggled to find red supergiant progenitors.

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With a career spanning nearly four decades, American death metal progenitors Cannibal Corpse have been one of the most infamous, enduring bands in the genre.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Viewed from Orange County, L.A. is the flagship of the fleet of the absurd, the dreamland of pitchmen and grifters, the progenitor of wicked Hollywood glitz and drive-by shootings.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

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progenitiveprogenitor cell