Ectoplasm
Ectoplasm
Ectoplasm (/ɛktoʊˌplæzəm/; from the Greek ektos, meaning "outside", and plasma, meaning "something formed or molded") is a term used in biology to refer to the outer part of the cytoplasm. This term is also used in spiritualism to describe a substance or spiritual energy "exteriorized" by physical mediums.
Etymology
The term "ectoplasm" was coined by Charles Richet, a French physiologist, in 1894. It is derived from the Greek words "ektos" (meaning "outside") and "plasma" (meaning "something formed or molded"). In the context of spiritualism, it was used to describe a substance or spiritual energy that was "exteriorized" by physical mediums.
In Biology
In biology, ectoplasm refers to the outer part of the cytoplasm. It is a clear and sticky outer layer of a cell's cytoplasm, which is involved in cellular movement, the formation of cellular extensions, and a cell's interaction with its environment.
In Spiritualism
In spiritualism, ectoplasm is described as a physical substance that is produced by mediums during a spiritualistic trance. The material is said to be associated with the formation of spirits, and its appearance can vary from a vaporous, light substance to a sticky, gel-like material or a cloth-like substance.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ectoplasm
- Wikipedia's article - Ectoplasm
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