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Diploidy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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diploidy

[dɪˈplɔɪdi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biological concept

Diploidy refers to the condition of having two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent. In diploid organisms, cells contain pairs of homologous chromosomes. This state is crucial for sexual reproduction and contributes to genetic diversity.

Synonyms

dual chromosome state, twofold.

Examples of usage

  • Humans are diploid organisms, having 46 chromosomes in each somatic cell.
  • Many flowering plants exhibit diploidy as their primary genetic state.
  • The diploidy allows for genetic variation during meiosis.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Most organisms, including humans, are diploid, having 46 chromosomes arranged in 23 pairs.
  • Diploidy is significant for sexual reproduction, allowing genetic variation through mating.
  • Understanding diploidy helps in studying genetic disorders, as abnormalities can occur if this balance is disrupted.

Evolutionary Significance

  • Diploidy is believed to provide advantages by allowing more genetic variation and enhancing the ability to adapt to changing environments.
  • In some plants, polyploidy (having more than two sets) can occur, which can lead to increased size and vigor.

Genetics

  • In diploid organisms, alleles can be dominant or recessive, influencing traits and how they are expressed.
  • Meiosis, the process of cell division that reduces the chromosome number, is essential for forming haploid cells during reproduction.

Agricultural Science

  • Many crops are selected for diploidy because it provides stability in traits desirable for farming and breeding.
  • Some cultivated plants have undergone artificial polyploidization to improve yield and disease resistance.

Origin of 'diploidy'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'diploios', meaning 'double', which reflects the two sets of chromosomes.
  • The suffix '-ity' is used in English to signify a state or condition, making diploidy mean the state of being double.

The term 'diploidy' originates from the Greek word 'diploos', meaning 'double', and the suffix '-idy' which denotes a state or condition. This concept became prominent in the early 20th century as advancements in cytology and genetics revealed behaviors of chromosomes during cell division. The understanding of diploidy is fundamental in genetics, as it relates to the mechanisms of inheritance and the genetic makeup of organisms. Scientists discovered that many organisms, including humans, are diploid, establishing a reference point for evolutionary biology and the study of genetic variation. This knowledge has been crucial in fields such as agriculture, medicine, and conservation biology.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,975, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.