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

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

crossing over

Instead of crossing over into the afterlife, Billy, the magically inclined twin, transferred his soul into the body of William Kaplan, a teenager who had just been involved in a fatal car crash.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 14, 2026

The artificial-intelligence build-out has officially begun crossing over to the world of junk bonds, where investors expect to be paid more for taking on bigger risks.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 23, 2026

Her portrayal of Doralee Rhodes combined comic timing with warmth, helping to redefine expectations of performers crossing over from music into film.

From BBC ● Aug. 25, 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

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

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