Heterozygote - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A heterozygote is an organism that has two different alleles of a gene, one inherited from each parent. This genetic variation can influence traits and inheritance patterns.
Definition:
An organism with two different alleles for a particular gene.
Synonyms:
hybrid, mixed genotype, heterozygous individual
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
homozygote, purebred
Common Collocations:
dominant allele, recessive allele, genetic variation
Derivatives:
heterozygosity, heterozygous
Usage Tips:
Use "heterozygote" in genetics to describe an organism with differing alleles for a trait.
Common Phrases:
carrier of traits, mixed genetic makeup, hybrid offspring
Etymology:
From Greek "heteros" (different) + "zygotos" (yoked), referring to differing paired genes.
Examples:
- 1. A heterozygote carries both a dominant and recessive allele.
- 2. The plant is a heterozygote, showing traits from both parent genes.
- 3. Scientists studied the heterozygote to understand genetic diversity.
- 4. A heterozygote may pass either allele to offspring.