nonchromosomal

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /nɒnˈkrəʊməˌsəʊl/

KK: /nɑnˈkroʊməˌsoʊl/

adjective

Definition

Not located on or related to a chromosome, often referring to genetic material that is not found within chromosomes.

Example

The study focused on nonchromosomal DNA that plays a role in cellular functions.

Conversation

Did you know that some DNA is actually nonchromosomal?

Really? I had no idea there were different types of DNA.

Yeah, it’s interesting how nonchromosomal DNA can carry genetic information too.

That makes sense! Science is full of surprising facts.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

extrachromosomal

plasmid

nonlinear

Antonyms

chromosomal

genomic

hereditary

Root Explanation

Nonchromosomal → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "chromosomal" (from "chromosome" which comes from Greek "chroma" meaning color and "soma" meaning body). The term refers to something that is not related to chromosomes, which are the colored bodies in cells that carry genetic information.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning not, and 'chromosomal' referring to the colored bodies that carry genetic information. This helps you remember that 'nonchromosomal' means something that is not related to those genetic structures.

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