chromosome
A thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes. In humans, each cell normally contains 23 pairs of these structures which determine hereditary characteristics.
Examples
3 of 5The doctor explained that a baby inherits one chromosome from each pair from each parent.
The doctor explained that a baby inherits one chromosome from each pair from each parent.
Recent breakthroughs in genomic sequencing have allowed for a more detailed mapping of the human chromosome.
Recent breakthroughs in genomic sequencing have allowed for a more detailed mapping of the human chromosome.
I guess I can blame my messy hair on my chromosomes!
I guess I can blame my messy hair on my chromosomes!
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'Chrome' (color) and 'Soma' (body). Scientists named them 'colored bodies' because they are the parts of the cell that soak up colorful dyes in a lab.
Quick Quiz
Humans usually have two ________ that determine their biological sex: X and Y.
Correct!
The correct answer is: chromosomes
Examples
The doctor explained that a baby inherits one chromosome from each pair from each parent.
everydayThe doctor explained that a baby inherits one chromosome from each pair from each parent.
Recent breakthroughs in genomic sequencing have allowed for a more detailed mapping of the human chromosome.
formalRecent breakthroughs in genomic sequencing have allowed for a more detailed mapping of the human chromosome.
I guess I can blame my messy hair on my chromosomes!
informalI guess I can blame my messy hair on my chromosomes!
During mitosis, the chromosomes condense and become visible under a light microscope.
academicDuring mitosis, the chromosomes condense and become visible under a light microscope.
Our biotech startup is focusing on identifying markers on the Y chromosome for personalized medicine.
businessOur biotech startup is focusing on identifying markers on the Y chromosome for personalized medicine.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
X chromosome
X chromosome
Y chromosome
Y chromosome
chromosome count
chromosome count
Often Confused With
A gene is a specific segment of DNA, whereas a chromosome is the entire structure that contains many genes.
Chromatin is the material that makes up a chromosome; a chromosome is the condensed, organized shape of that material.
Usage Notes
The word is almost exclusively used in biological, medical, and scientific contexts. It is a countable noun and is most frequently used in the plural when discussing genetics generally.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'gene' and 'chromosome' interchangeably, but remember that a chromosome is the 'bookshelf' and a gene is a single 'book' on that shelf.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Chrome' (color) and 'Soma' (body). Scientists named them 'colored bodies' because they are the parts of the cell that soak up colorful dyes in a lab.
Word Origin
Coined in the late 19th century from the Greek words 'khrōma' (color) and 'sōma' (body).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In modern society, chromosomes are often discussed in relation to identity, gender (X/Y), and genetic testing services like 23andMe.
Quick Quiz
Humans usually have two ________ that determine their biological sex: X and Y.
Correct!
The correct answer is: chromosomes
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
proceed
C1The noun form, typically used in the plural 'proceeds,' refers to the total amount of money received from a particular event, sale, or activity. It is a formal term used in academic, legal, and business contexts to describe the result of a financial transaction or fundraising effort.
individual
C1Relating to a single person or thing as distinct from a group. It describes something that is intended for, or used by, one person rather than a collective entity.
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B2To perform an action in a manner that is suitable, right, or proper for a particular situation, person, or occasion. It implies following specific social norms, professional standards, or logical requirements.
region
B2A region is an area of land that has common features, such as geography, climate, or culture, which distinguish it from other areas. It can refer to a large part of a country or the world and is often used in administrative or scientific contexts to organize space.
resource
B2A stock or supply of money, materials, staff, and other assets that can be drawn on by a person or organization in order to function effectively. In academic and informational contexts, it refers to a source of information or expertise used to support research or learning.
to
A1Used to indicate the place, person, or thing that someone or something moves toward. It can also mark the recipient of an action or the limit of a range.
and
A1A primary conjunction used to connect words, phrases, or clauses that are grammatically equal. It indicates addition, a sequence of events, or a relationship between two things.
a
A1A word used before a singular noun that is not specific or is being mentioned for the first time. It is used only before words that begin with a consonant sound to indicate one of something.
that
A1This word is a demonstrative pronoun used to indicate a specific person, object, or idea that is further away in space or time from the speaker. It is also used to refer back to something that has already been mentioned or to introduce a clause that identifies something.
I
A1The pronoun 'I' is used by a speaker or writer to refer to themselves as the subject of a verb. It is the first-person singular subject pronoun in English and is always capitalized regardless of its position in a sentence.
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