What is the term for a cell with a half set of chromosomes?

A cell with a half set of chromosomes is referred to as a haploid cell. In humans and many other organisms, diploid cells contain two complete sets of chromosomes, one inherited from each parent. Haploid cells, on the other hand, have only one set of chromosomes and are typically found in gametes, which are the reproductive cells (sperm and eggs). This reduction in chromosome number is crucial for sexual reproduction; when two haploid gametes fuse during fertilization, they restore the diploid chromosome number in the resulting zygote.

The terms associated with diploid and somatic cells refer to different structures and functions. Diploid cells encompass all somatic cells, which are the body cells not involved in reproduction. A monoploid is less commonly used and often refers specifically to organisms or life stages that consistently have a single chromosome set, which can create confusion in biological contexts. Therefore, haploid is the precise term to indicate cells with a single set of chromosomes.