mitochondrion

 
Pronunciation: /ˌmʌɪtə(ʊ)ˈkɒndrɪən/

noun (plural mitochondria /-rɪə/)

Biology
  • an organelle found in large numbers in most cells, in which the biochemical processes of respiration and energy production occur. It has a double membrane, the inner part being folded inwards to form layers (cristae).

Derivatives

mitochondrial

adjective

Origin:

early 20th century: modern Latin, from Greek mitos 'thread' + khondrion (diminutive of khondros 'granule')