Definition

A breeding experiment used in genetics to find out the genetic makeup of an individual that shows a dominant trait by crossing it with a recessive individual.

Example

The scientist performed a testcross to determine whether the plant was homozygous or heterozygous for the trait.

Conversation

I was reading about different genetic methods, and I came across the term testcross.

Oh, I've heard of that! It's used to figure out the genotype of a dominant trait, right?

Exactly! It involves crossing with a homozygous recessive individual.

That makes sense. It's a clever way to determine genetic traits.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To perform a specific type of genetic cross to determine the genotype of an organism by breeding it with a homozygous recessive individual.

Example

The scientist decided to testcross the plants to see if they carried the dominant trait.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever had to testcross your plants for better traits?

No, I haven't done that yet. What does it involve?

It's pretty interesting; you basically breed them to see which traits are passed on.

Root Explanation

This word originates from a combination of 'test' (from Latin 'testari', meaning to witness or testify) and 'cross' (from Old English 'cros', meaning a structure or symbol of intersection). The word 'testcross' refers to a breeding experiment where an individual with an unknown genotype is crossed with a homozygous recessive individual to determine the genotype of the former.

Memory Tip

Think of 'test' as witnessing or proving something and 'cross' as an intersection — a testcross is a way to witness the results of a genetic intersection.

Visually Confused Words