X chromosome

noun

: a sex chromosome that usually occurs paired in each female cell and single in each male cell in species in which the male typically has two unlike sex chromosomes compare y chromosome

Examples of X chromosome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Newsletter Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news A simple difference in the genetic code – two X chromosomes versus one X chromosome and one Y chromosome – can lead to major differences in heart disease. Amy Huebschmann, Discover Magazine, 24 Oct. 2024 Women have two X chromosomes, while men have just one. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 Sep. 2024 In their view, men and boys have one X chromosome in their cells and one Y, which carries only a paltry set of genes. Roxanne Khamsi, The Atlantic, 20 Sep. 2024 If a sperm cell carrying an X chromosome fertilizes the ovum, the fetus will be genetically female. Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 19 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for X chromosome 

Word History

First Known Use

1911, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of X chromosome was in 1911

Dictionary Entries Near X chromosome

Cite this Entry

“X chromosome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/X%20chromosome. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

X chromosome

noun
: a sex chromosome that is associated with femaleness and usually occurs paired in each female cell and single in each male cell in organisms (as human beings) in which the male normally has two unlike sex chromosomes compare y chromosome

Medical Definition

X chromosome

noun
: a sex chromosome that usually occurs paired in each female cell and single in each male cell in species in which the male typically has two unlike sex chromosomes compare y chromosome

More from Merriam-Webster on X chromosome

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!