syncytium
/sɪnˈsɪʃiəm/
noun
- A single cell or mass of tissue formed by the merging of many smaller cells, often found in muscles or in the early stages of development.
- In the lab, the scientists observed a syncytium forming from the fusion of several cells.
- The heart muscle is a syncytium that contracts as one unit.
- The syncytium in the placenta helps nutrients pass from mother to baby.