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Noun: cell theory  sel thee-u-ree
  1. (biology) the theory that cells form the fundamental structural and functional units of all living organisms; proposed in 1838 by Matthias Schleiden and by Theodor Schwann
    "Cell theory revolutionized our understanding of life and laid the foundation for modern biology";
    - cell doctrine

Derived forms: cell theories

Type of: scientific theory

Encyclopedia: Cell theory