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dissection

IPA

Dictionary definition of dissection

The act or process of carefully cutting apart or separating a biological specimen, typically a plant or animal, in order to examine and analyze its internal structure or anatomical features.
"The dissection of the insect allowed the entomologist to identify its unique characteristics."

Detailed meaning of dissection

Dissection is commonly conducted for educational, scientific, or medical purposes, allowing individuals to gain a deeper understanding of the organism's internal organs, tissues, and systems. It involves the systematic and precise disassembling of the specimen, often following a predetermined procedure or guided by anatomical knowledge. Dissections can be performed on various organisms, ranging from small invertebrates to complex vertebrates, and can provide valuable insights into their anatomy, physiology, and evolutionary relationships. Dissection is a fundamental technique used in biology, anatomy, and veterinary sciences, aiding in the development of knowledge and advancements in the field of life sciences.

Example sentences containing dissection

1. The dissection of the frog in biology class provided an illuminating look into amphibian anatomy for eager students.
2. As a medical student, mastering the art of dissection is crucial for understanding the complex intricacies of the human body.
3. The ethical concerns surrounding animal dissection in educational settings have sparked a wave of debate among stakeholders.
4. Utilizing virtual reality technology, the science department has been able to simulate dissection experiences, thereby reducing the need for animal specimens.
5. For aspiring surgeons, dissection exercises offer indispensable hands-on training in order to develop the skills needed for intricate operations.
6. Flower dissection is a captivating way to engage young children in the study of botany by offering them a tactile learning experience.

History and etymology of dissection

The noun 'dissection' is directly derived from the verb 'dissect,' which has its origins in the Latin word 'dissecare.' 'Dissecare' is formed by combining 'dis-' meaning 'apart' and 'secare' meaning 'to cut' or 'to slice.' Therefore, etymologically, 'dissection' signifies the act or process of cutting something apart, particularly for the purpose of examining and analyzing its internal structure or anatomical features. In the context of biology, 'dissection' involves carefully and systematically cutting apart a biological specimen, typically a plant or animal, to gain a deeper understanding of its internal workings. The etymology of 'dissection' reflects its historical connection to the precise and methodical approach required for the examination of biological organisms and has come to symbolize the scientific study of anatomy and structure.

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Further usage examples of dissection

1. In forensic pathology, dissection serves as a fundamental procedure for determining cause of death during autopsies.
2. During the dissection, the presence of a rare parasite in the host animal piqued the researcher's curiosity, leading to further investigation.
3. As part of their thesis, some Ph.D. students specialize in the dissection and microscopic examination of specific cell structures.
4. In his new book, the author undertakes a metaphorical dissection of societal norms, critically examining the structures that govern behavior.
5. When teaching dissection techniques, it's essential to prioritize safety measures, such as using scalpel guards, to prevent accidental injuries.
6. The artist's work represents a visual dissection of human emotions, laid bare in a vivid array of colors and shapes.
7. Despite the technological advancements in medical imaging, dissection remains a cornerstone in the educational journey of healthcare professionals.
8. One of the most memorable experiences in high school biology is the dissection of an earthworm, an activity both fascinating and slightly unnerving.
9. Historically, the dissection of human cadavers was a controversial practice, often conducted in secrecy due to religious and social taboos.
10. With advancements in 3D printing, researchers are exploring the possibility of creating synthetic models suitable for dissection studies.
11. In psychological research, the dissection of behavior into its constituent parts can be just as complex as dissecting a physical organism.
12. Before proceeding with the dissection, the biology teacher emphasized the importance of treating all specimens with respect and dignity.
13. In literature classes, the dissection of a text involves a deep analysis of its themes, characters, and rhetorical devices, opening up layers of meaning.
14. The dissection lab was filled with an atmosphere of focused concentration, as students meticulously worked to unveil the mysteries within their specimens.
15. The biology students performed a dissection of a frog to study its anatomy.
16. The dissection of the cadaver was part of the medical students' training.
17. The dissection of the flower revealed its reproductive structures.
18. The dissection of the crime scene helped the detectives gather crucial evidence.
19. The dissection of the argument exposed its logical fallacies.
20. The dissection of the literature piece revealed its underlying themes and symbolism.
21. The dissection of the business plan highlighted its strengths and weaknesses.
22. The dissection of the financial statements uncovered discrepancies in the company's records.
23. The biology students gathered around the lab table for a dissection of a frog.
24. The surgeon performed a dissection of the cadaver to study the intricate network of blood vessels.
25. The dissection of the flower revealed its reproductive structures and helped identify its species.
26. The anatomy class conducted a dissection of a sheep's heart to understand its internal structure.
27. The forensic scientist meticulously conducted a dissection of the victim's body to gather evidence.
28. The dissection of the seedpod helped the botanist understand the mechanism of seed dispersal.
29. The paleontologist carefully conducted a dissection of the fossilized dinosaur bone to extract valuable information about its structure and growth patterns.