Word: Genetic Fingerprint
Definition: A "genetic fingerprint" is a unique pattern of DNA that belongs to an individual. Just like your regular fingerprint (the lines on your fingers), a genetic fingerprint is a way to identify someone specifically based on their DNA. This technique is often used in criminal law to help solve crimes by matching DNA found at a crime scene to a suspect.
In scientific and legal contexts, "genetic fingerprinting" can also refer to the process of analyzing DNA to create this unique pattern. This technique can be used in various fields beyond criminal law, such as paternity testing, identifying endangered species, or tracking genetic diseases.
While "genetic fingerprint" primarily refers to DNA identification, "fingerprint" alone can refer to the patterns on your fingers, which are used for personal identification in everyday life.
There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to "genetic fingerprint," but in discussions about identity or uniqueness, you might hear phrases like "stand out from the crowd," which means to be unique or different.
A "genetic fingerprint" is an important tool in science and law, used to identify individuals based on their unique DNA.