The word "cycle" in cell cycle refers to the regular pattern of growth, DNA duplication, and cell division that occurs in eukaryotic cells. The cell cycle is the term that describes the development and growth of a cell, after its formation and until its reproduction (division into two daughter cells). In eukaryotic cells (cells that include a nucleus) the cell cycle is comprised of two major phases, the interphase and the mitosis. During interphase, the cell grows larger and duplicates its genetic material. During mitosis, the cell divides its genetic material and cytoplasm, creating two daughter cells.
