chromosomes

1. The small bodies in the nucleus of a cell that carry the chemical “instructions” for reproduction of the cell. They consist of strands of DNA wrapped in a double helix around a core of proteins . Each species of plant or animal has a characteristic number of chromosomes. For human beings, for example, it is forty-six.

Notes

In humans, sex is determined by two chromosomes: an X-chromosome, which is female, and a Y-chromosome, which is male. ( See sex chromosomes .)

Example Sentences

Since then they have claimed that male XY chromosomes were found in both cases.

From BBC

After defeat by Lin on Thursday, Turkey's Kahraman made an 'X' gesture to the crowd - said to be intended to represent female chromosomes - but both were smiling after their hug on the medal podium.

From BBC

Two of Lin's opponents, meanwhile, have made 'X' gestures - said to be intended to represent female chromosomes - in the ring after defeat.

From BBC

So a test that identifies XY chromosomes does not offer a complete picture.

From BBC

Staneva's 'X' was reportedly said to have symbolised female XX chromosomes.

From BBC