DNA fingerprinting

American  

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.

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DNA fingerprinting Scientific  

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.

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DNA fingerprinting Cultural  

1. 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.

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

Other Word Forms

• DNA fingerprint noun

Etymology

Origin of DNA fingerprinting

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

SNPs are specific points in the genome where the DNA sequence typically varies between people; they are the basis of DNA fingerprinting, and certain SNPs can also determine susceptibility to some diseases.

From Science Magazine • May 15, 2023

They investigated and got a DNA sample from a discarded coffee cup and used the tried-and-true method of DNA fingerprinting.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 22, 2022

Many of the law enforcement veterans dismissed him as a “bunny-hugger” and attacked the validity of DNA fingerprinting, but Clark was impressed.

From Seattle Times • May 19, 2019

DNA fingerprinting analyzes sections of DNA that may have little or no function but that vary widely from one individual to another.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2018

Dr. Pfeifer turned to DNA fingerprinting to determine how often such samples are mixed up at Washington University.

From New York Times • Jun. 26, 2017