Definition

A stage in the first part of cell division where chromosomes become visible as thin threads before they pair up.

Example

During leptotene, the chromosomes start to condense and can be seen under a microscope.

Conversation

In biology class today, we learned about leptotene during meiosis.

Oh really? What did the teacher say about it?

She explained that it's the stage where chromosomes start to take shape as fine threads.

That sounds interesting! I never knew there was a specific term like leptotene for that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Leptotene is formed from "lepto-" (from Greek "leptos", meaning thin or slender) and "tene" (from Greek "tenē", meaning thread). The term describes the thin, thread-like appearance of chromosomes during the early stages of meiosis.

Memory Tip

Think of 'thin' ('lepto-') and 'thread' ('tenē') to remember that leptotene refers to the thin, thread-like structure of chromosomes.

Visually Confused Words