Zygote vs. Fetus: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Updated on October 29, 2023
A zygote is the initial cell formed after fertilization, while a fetus is the developing organism from roughly the 8th week of pregnancy.
Key Differences
A zygote is the initial cell formed when a sperm fertilizes an egg, marking the beginning of pregnancy. A fetus, on the other hand, is a stage in the development of the pregnancy, typically starting from the eighth week until birth. Both words represent different stages of human development.
The term zygote is derived from the Greek word "zygotos," meaning "yoked or joined." The term fetus is derived from the Latin word "fetus," meaning "offspring." The zygote represents the very first stage of human development, while the fetus represents a later stage.
During the zygote stage, the single cell begins to divide and grow into a blastocyst, which then implants itself into the uterus. The fetus stage is when the organs and structures have formed, and the baby continues to grow and develop until it's ready for birth. While the zygote stage lasts for about a week, the fetus stage lasts for the majority of the pregnancy.
The zygote carries all the genetic information needed to form a new human being. A fetus, on the other hand, is a recognizable human form with developing organs and structures. Both the zygote and the fetus are critical stages in human development, each with their own unique characteristics and importance.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Initial cell after fertilization
Developing organism from 8th week to birth
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Origin
Greek word "zygotos" meaning joined
Latin word "fetus" meaning offspring
Development Stage
First stage of human development
Later stage of human development
Duration
Lasts about a week
Lasts from 8th week to birth
Appearance
Single cell
Recognizable human form
Zygote and Fetus Definitions
Zygote
Zygote is the initial cell formed after fertilization.
The zygote began to divide rapidly after fertilization.
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Fetus
Fetus is the developing organism from the 8th week to birth.
The fetus was visible on the ultrasound.
Zygote
Zygote is the beginning of pregnancy.
The zygote marked the start of the nine-month journey.
Fetus
Fetus is the later stage of human development.
The fetus grows and develops until it's ready for birth.
Zygote
Zygote is formed by the union of sperm and egg.
The zygote was formed when the sperm fertilized the egg.
Fetus
Fetus is derived from the Latin word "fetus" meaning offspring.
The word fetus is often used in medical contexts.
Zygote
Zygote contains all the genetic information for a new human.
The zygote carried the unique DNA of the new individual.
Fetus
Fetus is protected by the amniotic sac during development.
The fetus was cushioned and protected by the amniotic fluid.
Zygote
Zygote is the first stage of human development.
From the zygote stage, the embryo begins to form.
Fetus
Fetus is the stage where organs and structures have formed.
The fetus had all its organs developing properly.
Zygote
The cell formed by the union of two gametes, especially a fertilized ovum before cleavage.
Zygote
The organism that develops from a zygote.
Zygote
A fertilized egg cell.
Zygote
The cell resulting from the union of an ovum and a spermatozoon (including the organism that develops from that cell)
FAQs
What is a zygote?
A zygote is the initial cell formed after fertilization.
What is a fetus?
A fetus is the developing organism from the 8th week of pregnancy until birth.
At what stage does a zygote become a fetus?
A zygote becomes a fetus at the 8th week of pregnancy.
What is the duration of the fetus stage?
The fetus stage lasts from the 8th week of pregnancy until birth.
Is the zygote stage longer than the fetus stage?
No, the zygote stage lasts about a week, while the fetus stage lasts for the majority of the pregnancy.
What is the meaning of the word "zygote" in medical contexts?
In medical contexts, the word zygote refers to the initial cell formed after fertilization.
What does a zygote look like?
A zygote is a single cell.
What is the meaning of the word "fetus" in medical contexts?
In medical contexts, the word fetus refers to the developing organism from the 8th week of pregnancy until birth.
What is the significance of the zygote stage in human development?
The zygote stage is the beginning of pregnancy and marks the first stage of human development.
Can the zygote be seen with the naked eye?
No, the zygote is a single cell and cannot be seen with the naked eye.
Where does the word zygote come from?
The word zygote is derived from the Greek word "zygotos," meaning joined.
Where does the word fetus come from?
The word fetus is derived from the Latin word "fetus," meaning offspring.
What does a fetus look like?
A fetus has a recognizable human form with developing organs and structures.
What is the significance of the fetus stage in human development?
The fetus stage is when the organs and structures have formed, and the baby continues to grow and develop until it's ready for birth.
Can the fetus be seen with the naked eye?
Yes, the fetus has a recognizable human form and can be seen with the naked eye.
What is the duration of the zygote stage?
The zygote stage lasts about a week.
What genetic information does a zygote carry?
A zygote carries all the genetic information needed to form a new human being.
How is a zygote formed?
A zygote is formed by the union of sperm and egg.
What is the role of the amniotic sac in the development of the fetus?
The amniotic sac protects the fetus and provides it with a cushioned environment.
Is the fetus stage longer than the zygote stage?
Yes, the fetus stage lasts from the 8th week of pregnancy until birth, while the zygote stage lasts about a week.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
