Meiosis Meaning and Definition
Meiosis
Pronunciation
/miˈoʊsɪs/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The process by which a diploid cell, such as a gamete or somatic cell, undergoes cell division to produce four haploid daughter cells, each containing half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.
Examples
- Meiosis is the way in which sex cells, such as eggs and sperm, are produced.
- Meiosis is essential for the transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next.
Synonyms
- Cell division
- Reduction division
Antonyms
- Mitosis
- Cell fusion
Etymology
The word Meiosis comes from the Greek word “meiōsis,” meaning “diminution” or “reduction.”
Usage Notes
When referring to meiosis, it is important to distinguish between the two main stages: meiosis I and meiosis II. Meiosis I is the first stage of meiosis, which reduces the number of chromosomes by half. Meiosis II is the second stage, which divides the resulting haploid cells into four haploid daughter cells.
Cultural References
Meiosis has been referenced in several scientific and science-fiction works, including the TV show “Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey” and the novel “Daisy” by James Joyce.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
None
Related Words or Phrases
- Mitosis
- Genetics
- Genotype
Collocations
- Meiosis and DNA replication are closely related processes.
- Meiosis plays a crucial role in the development of offspring.
Frequency of Use
Meiosis is a term used primarily in scientific and academic contexts, particularly in the fields of genetics, biology, and medicine.
Common Misspellings
Gerbera