motile
UK: /ˈməʊtaɪl/ | US: /ˈmoʊtəl/
adj. capable of spontaneous movement (used especially in biology)
motile = mot<move> + ile<adjective suffix>
- mot (from Latin motus, past participle of movere "to move")
- ile (adjective-forming suffix, indicating capability or tendency, from Latin -ilis)
Etymology Origin:
The word motile originates from the Latin root mot- (movement), combined with the suffix -ile to form an adjective meaning "capable of movement." This term is primarily used in biology to describe cells or organisms that can move independently, reflecting its scientific precision. The logical progression ties directly to the Latin movere, which also gives rise to words like motion and motor.
Sperm cells are highly motile, enabling them to swim toward the egg.
Certain bacteria exhibit motile behavior under a microscope.
The motile cilia in the respiratory tract help clear mucus.
Protozoa are motile microorganisms found in freshwater.
Researchers studied the motile properties of algae in response to light.