unit character

noun

, Genetics.

1. a characteristic, usually controlled by a single gene, that is transmitted as a unit in heredity.

unit character

noun

1. genetics a character inherited as a single unit and dependent on a single gene

Word History and Origins

Origin of unit character¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Other decals boasted unit character through their fearsome, comical or fanciful logos: thunderbirds, doves, seahorses, wolves, warthogs, lions, tigers, bears, cobras, elephants, alligators, sharks.

From New York Times

In the persistence of the stage villain through all forms and periods, we might even discover one of Mendel's unit characters.

From Project Gutenberg

In a few cases it is known that immunity or insusceptibility to specific forms of infection is a unit character which follows Mendelian laws in heredity.

From Project Gutenberg

The reckless use of the phrase "unit character" has done much to mislead the uninitiated as to the effects that a single change in the germ plasm may produce on the organism.

From Project Gutenberg

The patriotic frame of mind has been spoken of above as if it were an hereditary trait, something after the fashion of a Mendelian unit character.

From Project Gutenberg