Definition

A type of hybrid vector used in genetics that combines plasmid DNA with other DNA to help clone large genes or gene fragments.

Example

Researchers used a cosmid to clone the gene of interest for their study.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new cosmid vector they developed for genetic cloning?

No, I haven't! What makes it different from the usual plasmids?

It's designed to hold larger gene fragments, which is pretty cool.

That sounds really useful for genetic research!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cosmid is formed from "cos" (a prefix derived from "cosm", meaning universe or world) and "mid" (from Old English "mid", meaning middle). The term "cosmid" refers to a type of vector used in molecular biology that can carry large fragments of DNA, thus relating to the concept of the universe or world of genetic material in the middle of biological research.

Memory Tip

Think of 'cosm' relating to the universe and 'mid' meaning middle — a cosmid is like a vector that carries genetic material in the middle of the universe of molecular biology.

Visually Confused Words