Definition

A group of three nucleotides in transfer RNA that pairs with a matching sequence in messenger RNA to help build proteins.

Example

The anticodon on the tRNA matched the codon on the mRNA during translation.

Conversation

I was reading about how proteins are made, and I came across the term anticodon.

Oh, that's interesting! The anticodon is crucial for matching the right amino acids, right?

Exactly! It's amazing how it binds to the codon in mRNA during protein synthesis.

Science is so cool; it’s like a complex puzzle that all fits together.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anticodon is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "codon" (from Greek "kodon", meaning a short sequence or code). The term refers to a sequence of three nucleotides that is complementary to a codon in mRNA, thus acting against or opposing it during protein synthesis.

Memory Tip

Think of 'anti-' meaning against, and 'codon' as a code — an anticodon is a sequence that works against a specific code in mRNA.

Visually Confused Words