Definition

Noun: 1. A stage in cell division: Metaphase is the second stage of mitosis or meiosis, during which chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane (the metaphase plate) before being separated into the two daughter cells.

Examples of Usage

• During metaphase, the chromosomes line up neatly in the middle of the cell.
• The spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of each chromosome in metaphase.
• A key characteristic of metaphase is the alignment of chromosomes along the metaphase plate.

Advanced Usage

• Metaphase arrest: A state where the cell cycle is deliberately halted during metaphase, often for observation or as part of a biological process.
  • Certain chemicals can induce a metaphase arrest in dividing cells.
• Metaphase plate: The imaginary plane in the center of a cell where chromosomes congregate during metaphase.
  • The chromosomes are aligned at the metaphase plate.

Variants and Related Words

• Metaphasic (adj): Relating to or characteristic of metaphase.
  • The metaphasic alignment is crucial for accurate chromosome segregation.

Synonyms

• Mitotic/Meiotic stage: (A more general term) Metaphase is a specific stage within these processes.

Different Meanings

This word is a specialized scientific term used almost exclusively in cell biology and genetics. It does not have common non-scientific meanings, idioms, or phrasal verbs.

Noun

1. the second stage of mitosis
2. the second stage of meiosis