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plural genes
: a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that is located usually on a chromosome and that is the functional unit of inheritance controlling the transmission and expression of one or more traits by specifying the structure of a particular polypeptide and especially a protein or controlling the function of other genetic material
Examples of gene in a Sentence
She inherited a good set of genes from her parents.
Recent Examples on the Web
Releasing in theaters on November 8 and on Netflix on November 22, filmmaking is apparently an intrinsic gene within the DNA of the Washington family.
—Malik William, Essence, 4 Nov. 2024
At least 20% of human genes have a counterpart in yeast.
—Quanta Magazine, 4 Nov. 2024
While there are no genes behind who is more likely to acquire lice, lice may be more likely to spread within a family once someone in the household has lice.
—Wendy Wisner, Health, 3 Nov. 2024
In a paper published in the Device journal this week, the team detailed how the device lowers the activity of harmful genes in infectious bacteria, and curbs their growth.
—New Atlas, 31 Oct. 2024
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Word History
Etymology
German Gen, short for Pangen, from pan- + -gen
First Known Use
1909, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing gene
Dictionary Entries Near gene
Cite this Entry
“Gene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gene. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
gene
noun
: a part of DNA or sometimes RNA that is usually located on a chromosome and that contains chemical information needed to make a particular protein (as an enzyme) controlling or influencing an inherited bodily trait or activity (as eye color or metabolism) or that influences or controls the activity of another gene or genes
Medical Definition
gene
noun
: a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that is located usually on a chromosome and that is the functional unit of inheritance controlling the transmission and expression of one or more traits by specifying the structure of a particular polypeptide and especially a protein or controlling the function of other genetic material
called also determinant, determiner, factor
More from Merriam-Webster on gene
Nglish: Translation of gene for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of gene for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about gene
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