Y chromosome

noun

, Genetics.

1. a sex chromosome of humans and most mammals that is present only in males and is paired with an X chromosome.

Y-chromosome

noun

1. the sex chromosome that occurs as one of a pair with the X-chromosome in the diploid cells of the males of many animals, including humans Compare X-chromosome

Y-chromosome

1. The sex chromosome that is paired with an X-chromosome in males. Most of the genes on the X-chromosome determine physical attributes associated with males, such as the development of testes.
2. See more at sex chromosomeSee Note at sex

Word History and Origins

Origin of Y chromosome¹

First recorded in 1920–25