chromosome

An illustration of chromosome, with its parts. (1) Chromatid. One of the two identical parts of the chromosome after S phase. (2) Centromere. The point where the two chromatids touch, and where the microtubules attach. (3) Short arm (4) Long arm.

Meaning

Noun

  • A linear arrangement of condensed DNA and associated proteins (such as chaperone proteins) which contains the genetic material (genome) of an organism.

Origin

  • 19th century: from German Chromosom, ultimately from Ancient Greek χρῶμα ("colour") + σῶμα (because they are stained under the microscope). Equivalent to chromo- + -some.

Modern English dictionary

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