synaptonemal complex

noun

syn·ap·to·ne·mal complex sə-ˌnap-tə-ˈnē-məl-

variants or less commonly synaptinemal complex

sə-ˌnap-tə-ˈnē-məl-

: a complex tripartite protein structure that spans the region between synapsed chromosomes in meiotic prophase

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Alfred Sturtevant's general understanding of the power of crossing over was not contingent upon knowing that in a physical sense this process occurs in the synaptonemal complex during prophase I of meoisis I). —

Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 8 Oct. 2013

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'synaptonemal complex.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

synaptic + -o- or -i- + Greek nēma thread — more at nemat-

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of synaptonemal complex was in 1958

See more words from the same year

Dictionary Entries Near synaptonemal complex

Synaptidae

synaptonemal complex

Synaptosauria

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Synaptonemal complex.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/synaptonemal%20complex. Accessed 29 Jan. 2023.

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