Definition

A group of three nucleotides in DNA or RNA that codes for a specific amino acid or signals the end of protein production.

Example

Each codon in the DNA sequence corresponds to a specific amino acid in the protein being made.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a codon?

Yeah, it’s that sequence of nucleotides in DNA, right?

Exactly! It’s amazing how just three nucleotides can determine so much.

Totally! I find genetics really fascinating.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Codon → It is formed from "co-" (meaning together) and "don" (from Greek "donare", meaning to give). The term codon refers to a sequence of three nucleotides that together code for a specific amino acid in protein synthesis.

Memory Tip

Think of 'together' ('co-') and 'giving' ('don') to remember that a codon is a sequence that gives instructions for building proteins.

Visually Confused Words