carrier
KAIR-ee-er
/ˈkæriər/
An individual or organism that harbors a genetic mutation or pathogen without displaying symptoms, capable of passing it on to offspring or others.
Focuses on hidden transmission capacity—harboring a gene variant or pathogen covertly.
The story behind the word. From Anglo-French 'carrier', from Old French 'charier' (to transport in a cart). It extended into medical and biological science in the late 19th century to describe individuals who 'carry' infectious microbes or hidden gene variants without showing illness.
Word relationships
- vector: A vector is an organism (like a mosquito) that transfers a pathogen between hosts, while a carrier is usually a host organism harboring the pathogen or gene itself.
- non-carrier: An individual who does not possess the specific pathogen or recessive gene mutation.
Commonly confused with
- vector: A carrier harbors a hidden gene or infection internally; a vector actively transports an infectious agent from one host to another.
Word family
- carry (verb): To harbor or possess a genetic trait or pathogen
Collocations
- asymptomatic carrier
- carrier screening
- genetic carrier
- carrier frequency
Example sentences
- "Both parents underwent screening to determine if either was an asymptomatic carrier of the cystic fibrosis gene." Genetic counseling session
- "Typhoid Mary became famous as an asymptomatic carrier who unwittingly spread bacterial infection to dozens of people." Infectious disease history
Memory hook
CARRIER = CARRIES a hidden gene or microbe without showing it. Silent harborer of gene or disease
When not to use
Do not confuse a genetic carrier (who harbors a recessive allele) with a symptomatic patient.
Fun facts
- An estimated 1 in 25 people of European descent is a carrier of the cystic fibrosis gene mutation.
- Asymptomatic bacterial carriers can harbor pathogens in their gallbladder or nasal passages for decades without ill effect.
Related words
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