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chiasma

noun chi·as·ma \ kī-ˈaz-mə , kē- \

Definition of chiasma

plural chiasmata play \kī-ˈaz-mə-tə, kē-\
1 :an anatomical intersection or decussation — compare optic chiasma
2 :a cross-shaped configuration of paired chromatids visible in the diplotene stage of meiotic prophase and considered the cytological equivalent of genetic crossing-over
—

chiasmatic

play \ˌkī-əz-ˈma-tik, ˌkē-\ adjective

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Origin and Etymology of chiasma

New Latin, X-shaped configuration, from Greek, crosspiece, from chiazein to mark with a chi, from chi (x)

Medical Dictionary

chiasma

noun chi·as·ma \ kī-ˈaz-mə, kē- \

medical Definition of chiasma

plural chiasmata play \-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
—

chiasmatic

play \ˌkī-əz-ˈmat-ik, ˌkē-\ adjective

Learn More about chiasma

  1. See words that rhyme with chiasma Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about chiasma

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