karyotype
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈkɛəriəˌtaɪp/
KK: /ˈkɛəriəˌtaɪp/
noun
Definition
A visual representation or arrangement of chromosomes in a cell, showing their number, size, and shape.
Example
The scientist prepared a karyotype to study the genetic abnormalities in the patient.
Conversation
Have you ever seen a karyotype before?
Yeah, I remember looking at one in my biology class.
They’re really interesting, especially how they show chromosome abnormalities.
Totally! It’s amazing how much information is packed into a karyotype.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chromosome
genome
carotype
Antonyms
anomaly
abnormality
irregularity
transitive verb
Definition
To classify and arrange the chromosomes of an organism based on their characteristics such as number, size, and shape.
Example
Scientists use karyotyping to analyze the chromosomes of the cells in a sample.
Tense Forms
Past: karyotyped
Past Participle: karyotyped
Conversation
Have you ever heard about how scientists karyotype different species?
Yeah, it's fascinating how they can analyze chromosomes that way.
I think it's really cool to see how they karyotype to understand genetic differences.
Root Explanation
Karyotype → It is formed from "karyon" (from Greek, meaning nucleus) and "type" (from Greek "typos", meaning impression or model). The word "karyotype" refers to the classification or description of the number and appearance of chromosomes in the nucleus of a cell.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'nucleus' ('karyon') being described or classified ('type') — that's what a karyotype does.
Visually Confused Words
artotype