reduction division

noun

: the usually first division of meiosis in which chromosome reduction occurs

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reduction division was in 1891

Dictionary Entries Near reduction division

Cite this Entry

“Reduction division.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reduction%20division. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

reduction division

noun
: the first meiotic cell division in the formation of sex cells in which the number of chromosomes in each cell is halved
also : meiosis

Medical Definition

reduction division

noun
: the usually first division of meiosis in which chromosome reduction occurs
also : meiosis

More from Merriam-Webster on reduction division

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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