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X chromosome
noun
: a sex chromosome that usually occurs paired in each female cell and single in each male cell in species in which the male typically has two unlike sex chromosomes compare y chromosome
Examples of X chromosome in a Sentence
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A simple difference in the genetic code – two X chromosomes versus one X chromosome and one Y chromosome – can lead to major differences in heart disease.
—Amy Huebschmann, Discover Magazine, 24 Oct. 2024
Women have two X chromosomes, while men have just one.
—Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 Sep. 2024
In their view, men and boys have one X chromosome in their cells and one Y, which carries only a paltry set of genes.
—Roxanne Khamsi, The Atlantic, 20 Sep. 2024
If a sperm cell carrying an X chromosome fertilizes the ovum, the fetus will be genetically female.
—Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 19 Sep. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1911, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near X chromosome
Cite this Entry
“X chromosome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/X%20chromosome. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
X chromosome
noun
: a sex chromosome that is associated with femaleness and usually occurs paired in each female cell and single in each male cell in organisms (as human beings) in which the male normally has two unlike sex chromosomes compare y chromosome
Medical Definition
X chromosome
noun
: a sex chromosome that usually occurs paired in each female cell and single in each male cell in species in which the male typically has two unlike sex chromosomes compare y chromosome
More from Merriam-Webster on X chromosome
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about X chromosome
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