protogene

noun

pro·​to·​gene
ˈprōtə+ˌ-
1
: a dominant gene or factor
2
[International Scientific Vocabulary, from New Latin protogenes primeval, firstborn, from Greek prōtogenēs, from prōt- prot- + -genēs born] : a hypothetical mutable primary unit that is capable of reduplication, is held to have differentiated from nonliving matter, and is regarded as a precursor of living beings

Word History

Etymology

prot- + gene

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near protogene

Cite this Entry

“Protogene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/protogene. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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