figurative. Anything in an immature or undeveloped state.

figurative. = embryo, n. 2.

transferred. A thing newly come into existence, or in its earliest stage.

figurative. A thing (material or immaterial) in its most basic or rudimentary form, showing potential to develop.

In singular. A beginning; an initial or imperfect form or stage. Also with of.

In figurative contexts and figurative. Cf. embryo, n. 2a.