plural genes
: a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that is located usually on a chromosome and that is the functional unit of inheritance controlling the transmission and expression of one or more traits by specifying the structure of a particular polypeptide and especially a protein or controlling the function of other genetic material
Examples of gene in a Sentence
She inherited a good set of genes from her parents.
Recent Examples on the Web
Zooming in further, scientists found that chromosomes in each cell were still organized into clear territories, giving experts insight into which genes were switched on and off while the mammoth was alive.
—
Lizette Ortega, Washington Post, 11 July 2024
The researchers also found that microbial function was affected, with microbial genes and metabolic pathways altered in children with ASD.
From this metagenomic information, the researchers developed a 31-marker microbial panel.
—New Atlas, 9 July 2024
But there are solutions, because health outcomes are shaped by more than just medical care or genes.
—Sam Altman, TIME, 8 July 2024
These genes include kruppel-like factor 5 (KLF5), SRY-box transcription factor 9 (SOX9), proline-serine-threonine phosphatase interacting protein 1 (PSTPIP1), and dermcidin (DCD).
—Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 7 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for gene 
Lizette Ortega, Washington Post, 11 July 2024
The researchers also found that microbial function was affected, with microbial genes and metabolic pathways altered in children with ASD.
From this metagenomic information, the researchers developed a 31-marker microbial panel.
—New Atlas, 9 July 2024
But there are solutions, because health outcomes are shaped by more than just medical care or genes.
—Sam Altman, TIME, 8 July 2024
These genes include kruppel-like factor 5 (KLF5), SRY-box transcription factor 9 (SOX9), proline-serine-threonine phosphatase interacting protein 1 (PSTPIP1), and dermcidin (DCD).
—Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 7 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for gene
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'gene.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near gene
Cite this Entry
“Gene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gene. Accessed 27 Jul. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
gene
noun
: a part of DNA or sometimes RNA that is usually located on a chromosome and that contains chemical information needed to make a particular protein (as an enzyme) controlling or influencing an inherited bodily trait or activity (as eye color or metabolism) or that influences or controls the activity of another gene or genes
Medical Definition
gene
noun
: a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that is located usually on a chromosome and that is the functional unit of inheritance controlling the transmission and expression of one or more traits by specifying the structure of a particular polypeptide and especially a protein or controlling the function of other genetic material
called also determinant, determiner, factor
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