leptotene

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Word: Leptotene

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: Leptotene is the first stage of prophase in meiosis, which is a type of cell division that occurs in organisms to produce reproductive cells, like sperm and eggs. During leptotene, chromosomes start to become visible as they condense, and each chromosome consists of two sister chromatids.

Usage Instructions

• When to Use: You would use "leptotene" in scientific discussions, particularly when talking about genetics, biology, or cell division.
• Who Uses It: This term is primarily used by biologists, geneticists, or students studying biology.

Example Sentence

• "During the leptotene stage, the chromosomes begin to coil and condense, making them easier to study under a microscope."

Advanced Usage

In more advanced discussions, you might describe leptotene in the context of its significance in meiosis, such as: - "Leptotene is crucial for the proper pairing of homologous chromosomes, which sets the stage for genetic recombination."

Word Variants

• Leptotene Stage: Refers specifically to this stage in meiosis.
• Leptotene Chromosomes: Refers to the chromosomes during this stage.

Different Meaning

In a biological context, "leptotene" is quite specific, and it does not have other meanings outside of this scientific usage.

Synonyms

There are no direct synonyms for "leptotene" as it is a specific term in biology. However, you can refer to it as a "stage of meiosis" in a broader context.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

There are no idioms or phrasal verbs associated with "leptotene," as it is a technical term specific to cell biology.

Summary

Leptotene is an important biological term that describes the first stage of prophase in meiosis.

Academic

Noun

1. the first stage of the prophase of meiosis