SINCE 1828
Barr body
noun
\ ˈbär-
\
\
Definition of Barr body
: a densely staining inactivated condensed X chromosome that is present in each somatic cell of most female mammals and is used as a test of genetic femaleness (as in a fetus)
— called also sex chromatin
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
More Definitions for Barr body
Barr body
noun
\ ˈbär-
\
\
Medical Definition of Barr body
: a densely staining inactivated condensed X chromosome that is present in each somatic cell of most female mammals and is used as a test of genetic femaleness (as in a fetus or an athlete)
— called also sex chromatin
Comments on Barr body
What made you want to look up Barr body? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Farm Idioms Quiz
-
- What does 'poke' refer to in the expression 'pig in a poke'?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
Share Barr body
Resources for Barr body