hexaploid
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /hɛkˈsæplɔɪd/
KK: /hɛkˈsæplɔɪd/
adjective
Definition
Referring to an organism or cell that contains six complete sets of chromosomes.
Example
Wheat is often classified as a hexaploid because it has six sets of chromosomes.
Conversation
Did you know that some plants are hexaploid?
Really? I had no idea what that meant until now!
Yeah, it means they have six sets of chromosomes in their cells.
That's fascinating! I wonder how that affects their growth.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sextuple
hexadic
hexagenic
Antonyms
haploid
diploid
tetraploid
noun
Definition
An organism or cell that contains six complete sets of chromosomes, which is more than the usual two sets found in diploid organisms.
Example
Wheat is often hexaploid, meaning it has six sets of chromosomes.
Conversation
Did you know that some plants are actually hexaploid?
Really? I had no idea! What does that mean exactly?
It means they have six complete sets of chromosomes.
Root Explanation
Hexaploid → It is formed from "hexa-" (from Greek "hex", meaning six) and "ploid" (from Greek "ploides", meaning having a certain number of sets). The word "hexaploid" refers to an organism or cell that has six sets of chromosomes.
Memory Tip
Think of 'six' ('hexa-') sets of chromosomes when you hear 'hexaploid' — it describes something with six sets.
Visually Confused Words
haploid
heptaploid
haplomid
haploidy
autohexaploid
heptaploidy
haloid