Y chromosome

noun

biology : a chromosome that is found with the X chromosome in the cells of male mammals and that is absent from the cells of female mammals

Full Definition of Y CHROMOSOME

: a sex chromosome that is characteristic of male cells in species in which the male typically has two unlike sex chromosomes — compare x chromosome

See Y chromosome defined for English-language learners

See Y chromosome defined for kids

1911

Medical Dictionary

noun \ˈwī-\

: a sex chromosome that is characteristic of male cells in species in which the male typically has two unlike sex chromosomes—compare x chromosome

Next Word in the Dictionary: ycleptPrevious Word in the Dictionary: YCAll Words Near: Y chromosome

What made you want to look up Y chromosome? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears