supergene

¹

[ soo-per-jeen ]

adjective

, Geology.

1. formed by descending waters, as mineral or ore deposits ( hypogene ).

supergene

²

[ soo-per-jeen ]

noun

, Genetics.

1. a portion of a chromosome consisting of linked genes that act as a single unit of inheritance.

Word History and Origins

Origin of supergene¹

1945–50; super- + -gene, as in hypogene

Origin of supergene²

First recorded in 1945–50; super- + gene

Example Sentences

Trible attributes this rapid transformation to mutations in a supergene that contains genes coding for several traits that determine what the workers look like and how they act.

From Science Magazine

However, Trible’s team found that most of the genetic differences between the ant parasites and its host relatives are in that supergene.

From Science Magazine

Trible attributes this rapid transformation to mutations in a supergene that contains genes coding for several traits that determine what the workers look like and how they act.

From Science Magazine

However, Trible’s team found that most of the genetic differences between the ant parasites and its host relatives are in that supergene.

From Science Magazine

It is “overwhelmingly likely” that the supergene controls the growth of impostor queens, but more targeted research is needed to confirm the finding, Dr. Trible said.

From New York Times