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.
Releasing in theaters on November 8 and on Netflix on November 22, filmmaking is apparently an intrinsic gene within the DNA of the Washington family. Malik William, Essence, 4 Nov. 2024 At least 20% of human genes have a counterpart in yeast. Quanta Magazine, 4 Nov. 2024 While there are no genes behind who is more likely to acquire lice, lice may be more likely to spread within a family once someone in the household has lice. Wendy Wisner, Health, 3 Nov. 2024 In a paper published in the Device journal this week, the team detailed how the device lowers the activity of harmful genes in infectious bacteria, and curbs their growth. New Atlas, 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 1 Dec. 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

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