Definition

This term describes a type of chromosome where the centromere is located between the end and the middle, resulting in one arm being longer than the other.

Example

The submetacentric chromosomes are important for understanding genetic variations.

Conversation

Did you know that some chromosomes are submetacentric?

Really? I didn't know that term before!

Yeah, it means one arm is shorter than the other.

That’s interesting! I’ll have to remember that for my biology class.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Submetacentric → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under), "meta-" (meaning beyond or change), and "centric" (from "centrum", meaning center). The word describes a chromosome that has its centromere located slightly off-center, thus being under the center.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'under' ('sub-') the 'center' ('centric') but still 'beyond' or 'changing' ('meta-') its position — that's what submetacentric means.

Visually Confused Words