Meaning & Definition of word "Chromosome"
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Chromosome
/ˈkroʊ.mə.sɔːm/
noun:
- 1. A thread-like structure made of DNA and proteins that carries genetic information in the form of genes.
- Example: Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, which contain the hereditary information passed from parents to offspring.
- 2. The structure that organizes and segregates DNA during cell division.
- Example: During mitosis, chromosomes become visible under a microscope as they condense and align.
- 3. A characteristic of an organism represented by the number and structure of its chromosomes.
- Example: Down syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21.
Etymology
From the Greek words 'chroma' meaning color and 'soma' meaning body, referring to their ability to stain with certain dyes.
Common Phrases and Expressions
X chromosome:
A sex chromosome that determines female biological characteristics.
Y chromosome:
A sex chromosome that determines male biological characteristics.
chromosomal aberration:
A change in the normal structure or number of chromosomes.
Related Words
gene:
A unit of heredity which is transferred from a parent to offspring.
DNA:
Deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that carries genetic information.
genome:
The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.
Slang Meanings of chromosome
Meaning: Chromies
Example Sentence: The scientists are studying the chromies to understand genetic disorders.
Meaning: Gene carriers
Example Sentence: Those gene carriers can determine various traits in the offspring.