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Cell

Cells are the basic building blocks of all living things. Think of them like tiny rooms that make up a much larger house—your body!

Examples of cells:

  • Animal cells: These make up animals like you, cats, and birds.
  • Plant cells form the structures of plants, from leaves to roots.
  • Bacterial cells are single-celled organisms found everywhere.
  • Fungi cells: These form structures like mushrooms.

Etymology:

The word “cell” comes from the Latin word “cella,” meaning “small room.” This is fitting, as early scientists looking through microscopes saw cells as box-like compartments.