gene

noun

plural genes
: a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that is located usually on a chromosome and that is the functional unit of inheritance controlling the transmission and expression of one or more traits by specifying the structure of a particular polypeptide and especially a protein or controlling the function of other genetic material

Examples of gene in a Sentence

She inherited a good set of genes from her parents.
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.
If genetic testing for hereditary cancer is recommended (e.g., for mutations in the BRCA1 or 2 genes, or genes associated with Lynch syndrome), ask whether testing for genes associated with medication response can also be ordered. 3. Ellen Matloff, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024 This can happen due to mutations in the gene that codes for β-catenin. Robert Burakoff, Verywell Health, 1 Nov. 2024 Women’s bodies are decidedly different from men’s, with unique organs, genes, hormones, and other key differences. Stacey Colino, TIME, 1 Nov. 2024 In animals, loss-of-function mutations in the MC1R gene can result in light, yellow or reddish coat color. Elizabeth Carlen, Discover Magazine, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for gene 

Word History

Etymology

German Gen, short for Pangen, from pan- + -gen

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gene was in 1909

Dictionary Entries Near gene

Cite this Entry

“Gene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gene. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

gene

noun
: a part of DNA or sometimes RNA that is usually located on a chromosome and that contains chemical information needed to make a particular protein (as an enzyme) controlling or influencing an inherited bodily trait or activity (as eye color or metabolism) or that influences or controls the activity of another gene or genes

Medical Definition

gene

noun
: a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that is located usually on a chromosome and that is the functional unit of inheritance controlling the transmission and expression of one or more traits by specifying the structure of a particular polypeptide and especially a protein or controlling the function of other genetic material

called also determinant, determiner, factor

More from Merriam-Webster on gene

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!