transposable element

noun

Definition of transposable element

: a segment of genetic material that is capable of changing its location in the genome or in some bacteria of undergoing transfer between an extrachromosomal plasmid and a chromosome

Recent Examples of transposable element from the Web

Most of these genes arose via gene duplication, rather than through transposable elements (genes that jump from one location to another).

— diana gitig, Ars Technica, "Check out the genes on this huge ‘shroom," 9 Nov. 2017

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

First Known Use of transposable element

1979

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

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Medical Dictionary

transposable element

noun

medical Definition of transposable element

: a segment of genetic material that is capable of changing its location in the genome or that in some bacteria is capable of undergoing transfer between an extrachromosomal plasmid and a chromosome — called also transposable genetic element