Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

autosome

noun
ˈɔːtəˌsoʊm
Definition
A type of chromosome that is not a sex chromosome.
Examples
  • The majority of human chromosomes are autosomes.
  • In humans, there are 22 pairs of autosomes.
  • Understanding autosomes can help in genetic research and studying hereditary conditions.
Meaning
Autosomes are chromosomes that determine most of the organism’s genetic traits and do not influence the sex of the individual.
Synonyms
  • non-sex chromosome
  • somatic chromosome