Definition

Relating to a condition where there is one less than the normal number of chromosome pairs in an organism.

Example

The plant exhibited monosomic traits due to its genetic makeup.

Conversation

I just read about a condition called monosomic that affects chromosomes.

Oh really? What does it mean?

It means having one less than the usual diploid number of chromosomes.

That sounds interesting! I wonder how that impacts living organisms.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Monosomic is formed from "mono-" (meaning single or one) and "soma" (from Greek "sōma", meaning body). The term refers to a condition involving a single chromosome in a pair being absent or present, thus relating to the concept of a single body of chromosomes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mono-' meaning single and 'soma' meaning body — this helps you remember that 'monosomic' refers to a single body of chromosomes.

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