Gene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🧎
Add to dictionary

gene

[dʒiːn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

genetic material

A gene is a unit of heredity that is passed down from parents to offspring. Genes are made up of DNA and determine specific traits or characteristics of an organism.

Synonyms

DNA segment, genetic code, hereditary unit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
gene

Used in general and scientific contexts to refer to a unit of heredity that is transferred from a parent to offspring and determines some characteristics of the offspring.

  • The gene responsible for eye color is located on chromosome 15.
  • Genes play a crucial role in determining the traits of an organism.
genetic code

Typically describes the sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that determines the amino acid sequence of proteins; used in discussions about molecular biology and genetics.

  • The genetic code is nearly universal among all living organisms.
  • Scientists have successfully deciphered the genetic code of the virus.
hereditary unit

Used to refer to a gene in the context of inheritance and hereditary traits, often in general or classical genetics discussions.

  • Gregor Mendel's work uncovered how hereditary units are passed from parents to offspring.
  • Every hereditary unit influences some characteristic of the organism.
DNA segment

Appropriate for emphasizing a specific part of the DNA molecule which may include one or multiple genes; often used in detailed scientific discussions.

  • Researchers have identified a DNA segment that appears to control the growth of certain types of cells.
  • A mutation was found in a specific DNA segment of the genome.

Examples of usage

  • The gene for eye color is located on chromosome 15.
  • Mutations in the gene can lead to genetic disorders.
  • Genes play a crucial role in determining an individual's physical appearance.
Context #2 | Noun

biology

A gene can also refer to a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that codes for a protein or functional RNA molecule.

Synonyms

genetic sequence, nucleotide sequence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
gene

Use 'gene' when referring to the basic unit of heredity in living organisms, which is passed from parents to offspring and determines some characteristic.

  • The gene responsible for eye color was inherited from her mother.
  • Researchers are studying a specific gene that is linked to diabetes.
genetic sequence

Use 'genetic sequence' when referring to the specific order of nucleotides in a segment of DNA or RNA.

  • The genetic sequence of the virus has been mapped to develop a vaccine.
  • Understanding the genetic sequence of crops can help improve their resistance to diseases.
nucleotide sequence

Use 'nucleotide sequence' when discussing the precise order of nucleotides in DNA or RNA, often in a more technical or scientific context.

  • The nucleotide sequence provides crucial information for genetic research.
  • Mutations in the nucleotide sequence can lead to serious health problems.

Examples of usage

  • The gene sequence was found to be responsible for the production of insulin.
  • Scientists are studying the function of this gene in cellular processes.
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To gene is to undergo genetic testing or analysis to determine one's genetic makeup or predisposition to certain traits or diseases.

Synonyms

DNA analysis, genetic testing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
gene

The basic unit of heredity in living organisms. It contains the information needed to build and maintain cells, and it passes traits from parents to offspring.

  • She inherited a gene from her father that makes her prone to diabetes
genetic testing

A medical test that identifies changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins to predict the risk of diseases, determine genetic disorders, or inform personalized medical treatment.

  • Genetic testing revealed that she carries the BRCA1 gene mutation, increasing her risk of breast cancer
DNA analysis

A scientific process that involves examining the DNA sequences to identify features or characteristics. Often used in genetic research, forensic science, and medical diagnostics.

  • DNA analysis was used to solve the crime after matching the samples with the suspect

Examples of usage

  • She decided to gene for potential health risks.
  • The company offers genetic testing for those interested in gening.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Genes are made up of DNA, which carries the instructions for building and maintaining living organisms.
  • Humans share about 99.9% of their genes with each other, highlighting our biological similarities.
  • Some genes can influence not just physical traits but also behaviors and predispositions to certain diseases.

Health

  • Certain genes can increase the risk of conditions like heart disease or diabetes, making genetics essential for medical research.
  • Gene therapy is an innovative treatment approach that aims to fix or replace faulty genes to treat diseases.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of genes features prominently in popular films like 'GATTACA', which explores themes of genetic engineering and discrimination.
  • Many television shows highlight genetic traits, such as ancestry tests revealing unexpected family connections.

Literature

  • In the realm of science fiction, themes surrounding genes and genetic modification explore ethical dilemmas, as seen in books like 'Brave New World'.
  • Authors often use genetic background to shape characters, explaining their behaviors and societal roles.

Origin of 'gene'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'gene' comes from the Greek word 'genos', meaning 'race' or 'family'.
  • It was first coined in the early 20th century by Danish botanist Wilhelm Johannsen, who studied heredity.

The term 'gene' was first coined by Danish botanist Wilhelm Johannsen in 1909 to describe the basic unit of heredity. Over the years, the field of genetics has made significant advancements in understanding how genes function and contribute to the traits of living organisms. The discovery of DNA as the genetic material in the 1950s by Watson and Crick revolutionized the study of genes. Today, genes play a central role in fields such as biotechnology, medicine, and evolutionary biology.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,325, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.