To save this word, you'll need to log in.
chi·as·ma | \ kī-ˈaz-mə 
, kē- \
, kē- \ plural chiasmata\ kī-ˈaz-mə-tə , kē- \
, kē- \Definition of chiasma
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
Other Words from chiasma
chiasmatic \ ˌkī-əz-ˈma-tik , ˌkē- \ adjective
, ˌkē- \ adjectiveKeep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
More Definitions for chiasma
chiasma
nounchi·as·ma | \ kī-ˈaz-mə, kē- \
\ plural chiasmata\ -mət-ə \
\Medical Definition of chiasma
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
Other Words from chiasma
chiasmatic \ ˌkī-əz-ˈmat-ik, ˌkē- \ adjective
\ adjectiveComments on chiasma
What made you want to look up chiasma? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
The Eponym Quiz
- Which is the best synonym of bowdlerize?
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
- The Eponym Quiz
Do you know these words that come from names?
Take the quiz - Liar, Liar Quiz
Test your knowledge of words for lies, liars, and those being lied to. In other words, everyone.
Take the quiz - Spell It
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
Take the quiz - Syn City
Build a city of skyscrapers—one synonym at a time.
Play the game
Share chiasma
Time Traveler for chiasma
The first known use of chiasma was in 1839
See more words from the same year