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

Genius Sports recently created a 3-D digital highlight of a British soccer player racing down the pitch and then magically crossing over into the streets of Hanoi, where he scored a goal.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 12, 2026

Israeli military body Cogat says approximately 1,150 people have left Gaza via the crossing over the past two months and that the same number have entered Gaza.

From BBC ● Apr. 7, 2026

He said the flight took a route down along Saudi Arabia, before "crossing over Israel".

From BBC ● Mar. 6, 2026

Once hunted to extinction in France, wolves began crossing over from Italy after gaining protected status under the 1979 Bern Convention.

From Barron's ● Feb. 16, 2026

A few minutes passed, and Thomas felt the long day finally catch up to him, the leaded edge of sleep crossing over his mind.

From "The Maze Runner" by James Dashner