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Haploid: meaning, definitions and examples

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haploid

 

[ ˈhæp.lɔɪd ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

biological term

Haploid refers to a cell or organism that contains a single set of chromosomes. In contrast to diploid organisms, which have two sets of chromosomes, haploid cells are typically produced during meiosis. These cells are essential for sexual reproduction, as they combine with another haploid cell during fertilization to form a diploid zygote. Many organisms, including certain fungi, algae, and gametes in animals, are haploid at some stage in their life cycles.

Synonyms

monoploid, single, unpaired

Examples of usage

  • The gametes in humans are haploid.
  • Haploid spores are produced by some plant species.
  • During meiosis, diploid cells undergo division to become haploid.

Translations

Translations of the word "haploid" in other languages:

🇵🇹 haploide

🇮🇳 हैप्लॉइड

🇩🇪 haploid

🇮🇩 haploid

🇺🇦 гаплоїдний

🇵🇱 haploidalny

🇯🇵 単相

🇫🇷 haploïde

🇪🇸 haploide

🇹🇷 haploid

🇰🇷 단일염색체

🇸🇦 أحادي الصيغة الصبغية

🇨🇿 haploidní

🇸🇰 haploidný

🇨🇳 单倍体

🇸🇮 haploid

🇮🇸 haploíð

🇰🇿 гаплоидты

🇬🇪 ჰეპლოიდური

🇦🇿 haploid

🇲🇽 haploide

Word origin

The term 'haploid' originates from the Greek word 'haploides', which means 'single' or 'simple'. This word was first introduced in the early 20th century as scientists began to study cell divisions and reproduction at a more detailed level. The study of meiosis and the realization that gametes carry only one set of chromosomes led to the understanding of this term in the field of genetics. The prefix 'haplo-' relates to the concept of a single set, highlighting the importance of understanding the genetic composition of organisms, especially in relation to reproduction.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,708, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.