|
Meiosis - Dictionary Definition and Overview |
|
Meiosis : (noun)
1: (genetics) cell division that produces reproductive cells in
sexually reproducing organisms; the nucleus divides into
four nuclei each containing half the chromosome number
(leading to gametes in animals and spores in plants)
[syn: miosis, reduction division]
2: understatement for rhetorical effect (especially when
expressing an affirmative by negating its contrary);
"saying `I was not a little upset' when you mean `I was
very upset' is an example of litotes" [syn: litotes]
Based on WordNet 2.0
|
|
Meiosis : \Mei*o"sis\, n. [NL., fr. Gr. ?, fr. ? to make smaller,
from ?. See Meionite.] (Rhet.)
Diminution; a species of hyperbole, representing a thing as
being less than it really is.
Based on Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
|
|
Meiosis : Meiosis: The process of germ cell formation. During meiosis, each chromosome pairs with the other chromosome in the pair and they exchange segments of genetic material. In both women and men,
the autosomes (non-sex chromosomes) pair. In women, the X chromosomes pair; and in men, the X and Y chromosome pair. After the exchange of genetic material, the chromosomes separate, and meiosis
continues. The chromosome number is reduced from 46 to 23 in meiosis.
Based on Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
|
|
|
|
Example Usage of Meiosis |
 |
bdcthomas: Meiosis, like litotes, is not a bad word. |
 |
ViaRyan: What are the phases of Meiosis |
 |
mesenchyme: I am so tired of biology I could just about puke blood. If I don't have to read about Meiosis ever again it will be too damn soon. |
|
