Motility
(noun)
The ability of an organism or cell to move spontaneously and actively, especially by means of muscular contraction.
Origin:
Early 19th century: from french motilité, from latin motus, past participle of movere 'to move'.
Examples:
- The motility of the sperm cells was tested in the laboratory.
- Motility is an important factor in the success of fertilization.
- Some bacteria have a flagellum, which is used for motility.
- The motility of the muscles is regulated by the nervous system.
- The motility of cells is essential for processes such as migration, invasion and dissemination.