Y chromosome

noun

, Genetics.

1. a sex chromosome of humans and most mammals that is present only in males and is paired with an X chromosome.

Y-chromosome

noun

1. the sex chromosome that occurs as one of a pair with the X-chromosome in the diploid cells of the males of many animals, including humans Compare X-chromosome

Y-chromosome

1. The sex chromosome that is paired with an X-chromosome in males. Most of the genes on the X-chromosome determine physical attributes associated with males, such as the development of testes.
2. See more at sex chromosomeSee Note at sex

Word History and Origins

Origin of Y chromosome¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

"In fact, scientists used to believe that the Y chromosome lacked genetic variety, which we believed meant that it didn't contribute much to species diversity."

From Science Daily

To fully understand this complex swath of the American electorate, there’s been no shortage of wide-lens examinations into the political leanings of the Y chromosome set.

From Los Angeles Times

Some say it is impossible to establish that everyone with a Y chromosome is a male and everyone without a Y chromosome is a female, and that more data is needed.

From BBC

Because these genetic variations are so many and so varied, some experts say it’s impossible to establish that everyone with a Y chromosome is a male and everyone without a Y chromosome is a female.

From BBC

As a result, across the six ape species, the research team found that the Y chromosome was much more variable than the X over a variety of characteristics, including size.

From Science Daily