melanoblast
noun
me·la·no·blast mə-ˈla-nə-ˌblast 
ˈme-lə-nō-
: a cell that is a precursor of a melanocyte or melanophore
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web Normally, a specific group of cells in developing chickens’ systems use EDN3 to guide the migration of color-creating melanoblasts, but in hyperpigmented breeds, almost all of the chickens’ cells express EDN3. 
Meilan Solly, Smithsonian, 20 Sep. 2019 And when a normal chicken is developing, certain cells, like those in the skin and feather follicles, express EDN3, which triggers the migration of melanoblasts, or the cells that go on to create color. Jason Bittel, National Geographic, 16 Sep. 2019
Meilan Solly, Smithsonian, 20 Sep. 2019 And when a normal chicken is developing, certain cells, like those in the skin and feather follicles, express EDN3, which triggers the migration of melanoblasts, or the cells that go on to create color. Jason Bittel, National Geographic, 16 Sep. 2019 Word History
Etymology
borrowed from German Melanoblast, from melano- melano- + -blast -blast
First Known Use
1901, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
melanoblast
noun
me·la·no·blast mə-ˈlan-ə-ˌblast ˈmel-ə-nō-
ˈmel-ə-nō- : a cell that is a precursor of a melanocyte or melanophore