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Diploid: meaning, definitions and examples

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diploid

 

[ ˈdɪplɔɪd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

genetics biology

A diploid is any organism or cell that possesses two sets of chromosomes. This condition is essential for the normal function of many multicellular organisms. In diploids, genes are often expressed in pairs, allowing for dominance and recessiveness in traits. Most eukaryotic organisms, including animals and plants, exhibit diploidy in their somatic cells, contrasting with haploid cells that contain only one set of chromosomes. Diploidy contributes to the genetic variability and adaptability of species.

Synonyms

diploidy, diplotene

Examples of usage

  • The diploids in our study showed increased vitality.
  • Many animals are klasified as diploids.
  • Yeast can exist in both diploid and haploid forms.

Translations

Translations of the word "diploid" in other languages:

🇵🇹 diplóide

🇮🇳 डिप्लोइड

🇩🇪 diploid

🇮🇩 diploid

🇺🇦 диплоїд

🇵🇱 diploidalny

🇯🇵 二倍体

🇫🇷 diploïde

🇪🇸 diploide

🇹🇷 diploid

🇰🇷 이배체

🇸🇦 ثنائي الصبغيات

🇨🇿 diploidní

🇸🇰 diploidný

🇨🇳 二倍体

🇸🇮 diploid

🇮🇸 tvílit

🇰🇿 двуядролық

🇬🇪 დიპლოიდური

🇦🇿 diploid

🇲🇽 diploide

Etymology

The word 'diploid' originated from the Greek word 'diplous,' meaning 'double,' combined with the suffix '-oid,' meaning 'like' or 'resembling.' It was first used in the context of genetics to describe cells or organisms with two complete sets of chromosomes. The term gained prominence in the 20th century as scientific understanding of cell division and genetic inheritance advanced. Diploidy was recognized as a critical factor in the reproductive processes of eukaryotic organisms, distinguishing it from haploidy, where only one set of chromosomes is present. The distinction laid the groundwork for necessary studies into genetic variation, evolutionary biology, and inheritance patterns.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,240, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.