Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to meiosis: Pertaining to the biological process of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the production of gametes (sex cells like eggs and sperm).

Usage

• The term "meiotic" is used specifically in the context of biology and genetics to describe processes, stages, or structures associated with meiosis.
• It functions as a descriptive adjective and is typically placed before a noun or after a linking verb.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The meiotic division ensures genetic diversity in offspring.
  • Researchers studied the meiotic spindle apparatus in detail.
  • Abnormalities in the meiotic process can lead to chromosomal disorders.

Advanced Usage

• "Meiotic recombination": A key event during meiosis where genetic material is exchanged between homologous chromosomes, increasing genetic variation.
  • Meiotic recombination is crucial for evolution.
• "Meiotic arrest": A pause or halt in the progression of meiosis.
  • The oocyte remains in meiotic arrest until ovulation.

Variants and Related Words

• Meiosis (n): The name of the cell division process itself.
  • Meiosis consists of two rounds of division: Meiosis I and Meiosis II.
• Meiotically (adv): In a manner relating to meiosis.
  • The chromosomes separate meiotically.

Synonyms

• Reductional (in the specific context of chromosome number reduction).
• Gametogenic (pertaining to the formation of gametes, which involves meiosis).

Antonyms

• Mitotic (relating to mitosis, the type of cell division for growth and repair that results in two identical daughter cells).

Adjective

1. of or relating to meiosis