Cells are defined as the smallest structural and functional units of life, capable of carrying out all basic activities necessary for survival. Each cell works like a tiny factory, producing energy, synthesizing proteins, and maintaining life's essential processes. Every cell is made up of cytoplasm that is enclosed in a membrane and includes many small molecules of nutrients and metabolites as well as many macromolecules including proteins, DNA, and RNA. The term " cell " is derived from the Latin word cellula, which means "small room." Cell Definition Cells are the basic unit of life. In the modern world, they are the smallest known world that performs all of life’s functions. All living organisms are either single cells , or are multicellular organisms composed of many cells working together. Cells are the smallest known unit that can accomplish all of these functions. Defining characteristics that allow a cell to perform these functions include: Cells are the basic, fundamental unit of life. So, if we were to break apart an organism to the cellular level, the smallest independent component that we would find would be the cell . Explore the cell notes to know what is a cell , cell definition , cell structure, types and functions of cells .