transfer RNA

noun

, Genetics.

1. a small RNA molecule, consisting of a strand of nucleotides folded into a clover-leaf shape, that picks up an unattached amino acid within the cell cytoplasm and conveys it to the ribosome for protein synthesis. : tRNA

transfer RNA

noun

1. biochem any of several soluble forms of RNA of low molecular weight, each of which transports a specific amino acid to a ribosome during protein synthesis Sometimes shortened tot-RNA Also calledsoluble RNA See also messenger RNA genetic code

transfer RNA

/ trăns′fər /

1. See under RNA

Word History and Origins

Origin of transfer RNA¹

First recorded in 1960–65