Definition

Describing an organism or cell that has five sets of chromosomes, which is five times the basic number of chromosomes.

Example

The plant species is classified as pentaploid due to its unique chromosome structure.

Conversation

Did you know some plants can be pentaploid?

Really? I didn't know that meant they have five sets of chromosomes.

Yeah, it’s pretty fascinating how that affects their growth.

I wonder if it makes them more resilient to changes in the environment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

An organism or cell that has five sets of chromosomes instead of the usual two sets found in diploid organisms.

Example

The pentaploid plant showed unique characteristics compared to its diploid relatives.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a pentaploid?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's an organism with five sets of chromosomes, which is pretty rare.

Root Explanation

Pentaploid → It is formed from "penta-" (from Greek "pente", meaning five) and "-ploid" (from Greek "ploides", meaning fold or layer). The word "pentaploid" refers to a cell or organism that has five sets of chromosomes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'five' ('penta-') and 'layers' ('-ploid') to remember that 'pentaploid' means having five layers of chromosomes.

Visually Confused Words