from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Karyokinesis \Kar"y*o*ki*ne`sis\
(k[a^]r`[i^]*[-o]*k[-i]*n[=e]"s[i^]s), n. [NL., fr. Gr.
ka`ryon a nut, kernel + kinei^n to move.]
1. (Biol.) The indirect division of cells in which, prior to
division of the cell protoplasm, complicated changes take
place in the nucleus, attended with movement of the
nuclear fibrils; -- opposed to {karyostenosis}. The
nucleus becomes enlarged and convoluted, and finally the
threads are separated into two groups which ultimately
become disconnected and constitute the daughter nuclei.
Called also {mitosis}. See {Cell development}, under
{Cell}.
[1913 Webster]
2. The changes that occur in the nucleus of a cell,
especially movements of the chromosomes, in the process of
cell division.
[PJC]