definitions

crossing over

noun Genetics.

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

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RELATED WORDS

traverse, span, unite, join, bind, couple, reach, cross, attach, link, branch, subtend

Nearby words

crossfoot, crosshatch, crosshead, crossing, crossing guard, crossing over, crossjack, crosslet, crosslight, crossline, crossly

Origin of crossing over

First recorded in 1910–15
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

British Dictionary definitions for crossing over

crossing over

noun

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 offspringSee also linkage (def. 4)
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Medicine definitions for crossing over

crossing over

n.

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes that occurs during meiosis and contributes to genetic variability.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.

Science definitions for crossing over

crossing over

crossing-over (krô′sĭng-ō′vər)

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes that occurs during meiosis and contributes to genetic variability.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.