Main Entry: chi·as·ma

Pronunciation: \kī-ˈaz-mə, kē-\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural chi·as·ma·ta \-mət-ə\

1 : an anatomical intersection or decussation—see optic chiasma
2 : a cross-shaped configuration of paired chromatids visible in the diplotene of meiotic prophase and considered the cytological equivalent of genetic crossing-over

—chi·as·mat·ic \ˌkī-əz-ˈmat-ik, ˌkē-\ adjective