DNA fingerprinting


noun
  1. the use of a DNA probe for the identification of an individual, as for the matching of genes from a forensic sample with those of a criminal suspect.

Origin of DNA fingerprinting

1
First recorded in 1985–90

Other words from DNA fingerprinting

  • DNA fingerprint, noun

Words Nearby DNA fingerprinting

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

Scientific definitions for DNA fingerprinting

DNA fingerprinting

  1. The use of a sample of DNA to determine the identity of a person within a certain probability. DNA fingerprinting is done by analyzing repeating patterns of base pairs in DNA sequences that are known to vary greatly among individuals.

The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Cultural definitions for DNA fingerprinting

DNA fingerprinting

A technique by which the DNA of an individual can be compared with that found in a sample or another individual. It differs from DNA sequencing in that it compares only a few features of two strands of DNA.

Notes for DNA fingerprinting

DNA fingerprinting is accepted as evidence in criminal trials, as well as in courts for establishing paternity and in identifying remains.

The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.