Definition

A genetic condition where a person has three copies of a specific chromosome instead of the usual two, which can lead to various health issues.

Example

Trisomy 21 is commonly known as Down syndrome and is characterized by an extra chromosome.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of trisomy?

Yeah, I think it’s related to genetic conditions, right?

Exactly! It’s when there are three copies of a chromosome instead of two.

That’s interesting — I wonder how it affects people with conditions like Down syndrome.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Trisomy → It is formed from 'tri-' (meaning three) and 'soma' (from Greek 'sōma', meaning body). The word 'trisomy' refers to a condition where there are three copies of a particular chromosome instead of the usual two, thus indicating a 'three-body' situation in terms of chromosomes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tri-' meaning three, and 'soma' meaning body — this helps you remember that trisomy refers to having three bodies of chromosomes.

Visually Confused Words