cleavage

1. Series of mitotic cell divisions occurring in the oocyte immediately following its fertilization.
2. Splitting of a complex molecule into two or more simpler molecules.
3. Linear clefts in the skin indicating extrinsic stresses being applied in that area.
4. The tendency of a crystal to break along a preferred direction or plane.

Synonym(s): intermammary cleft

Synonym(s): segmentation 2

See Also: cleavage division

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