sister chromatid

noun

plural sister chromatids

: either of the two identical chromatids that are formed by replication of a chromosome during the S phase of the cell cycle, are joined by a centromere, and segregate into separate daughter cells during anaphase

The name cohesin is derived from its function in maintaining the cohesion of sister chromatids after DNA replication; this ensures their faithful segregation into daughter cells during mitosis.

—Science

Word History

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

sister chromatid

noun

: either of the two identical chromatids that are formed by replication of a chromosome during the S phase of the cell cycle, are joined by a centromere, and segregate into separate daughter cells during anaphase