Synonyms for

Embryonic

Verb / ˌembri:ˈɑ:nɪk / Another word for embryonic — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Embryonic means relating to an embryo or the early stages of development.

Synonyms & similar words

embryonal embryotic embryologic undeveloped nascent incipient germinal inchoate rudimentary primitive undeveloped preliminary inception initiatory beginning formative early nascent incipient germinal undeveloped unfledged immature

Synonyms by register

Formal

rudimentary nascent germinal incipient

Informal

early-stage just-starting budding

Literary

unformed inchoate

Antonyms

developed mature complete adult final grown

Common collocations

  • embryonic stage
  • embryonic development
  • embryonic form
  • embryonic tissue
  • embryonic stem cells
  • embryonic period
  • embryonic state

Word family

noun embryo
adjective embryonic

Usage note

Often used metaphorically to describe something in its very early stages of development. It carries a connotation of potential but also immaturity.

Example sentences

  1. The embryonic chick is developing inside the egg.
  2. The plant is in its embryonic stage and has not yet grown leaves.
  3. Scientists are studying embryonic stem cells to better understand how cells develop.
  4. The embryonic brain is not fully formed yet.

Quotes

  • In the embryonic world, there are really only three kinds of people: villains, victims, and heroes.
  • The embryonic stage of our growing up is to discover a personal vision, and to have the courage to express it.
  • The embryonic cell of the new social order is the individual family.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words