crossing over

American  

noun

Genetics.

1. the interchange of corresponding chromatid segments of homologous chromosomes with their linked genes.

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crossing over British  

noun

1. biology the interchange of sections between pairing homologous chromosomes during the diplotene stage of meiosis. It results in the rearrangement of genes and produces variation in the inherited characteristics of the offspring See also linkage

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crossing over Scientific  

/ krô′sĭng-ō′vər /

1. The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes that occurs during meiosis and contributes to genetic variability.

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Etymology

Origin of crossing over

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

crossing over

The first signs that a dog is crossing over into his senior years are often a graying muzzle, cloudier eyes or a slower gait.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 30, 2026

“In Q3, Carvana once again drove industry-leading growth and profitability while crossing over $20 billion revenue run rate scale for the first time,” said CEO and founder Ernie Garcia.

From Barron's ● Oct. 29, 2025

Twenty captives were crossing over Israel’s border to jubilant homecomings, but Bipin wasn’t among them.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 15, 2025

Next came an overnight bus ride to their final destination: tiny Swink, Colo., where Japanese American farmers had previously employed Alvarado’s wealthier uncles, writing a letter of recommendation this time to make crossing over easier.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 10, 2025

To Lefty getting off work one Friday evening and crossing over Miller Road to be paid from the armored truck.

From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides