binary fission

noun
UK /ˈbaɪnəri ˈfɪʃən/
US /ˈbaɪnəri ˈfɪʃən/

Binary fission is when one living cell splits into two new cells.

Bacteria make more bacteria by binary fission.

SYNONYMS

cell divisionsplittingreproductionduplication

RELATED WORDS

bacteriamitosiscellorganismreplication

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A method of asexual reproduction in single-celled organisms.

Amoebas use binary fission to reproduce.

3. The process by which a parent cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

Under the microscope, we watched binary fission happen in real time.

4. A simple way of multiplying that does not need a partner.

Because of binary fission, one bacterium can become millions in a day.