genotype
JEE-noh-type
/ˈdʒiːnətaɪp/
The genetic constitution of an individual organism.
The specific set of alleles (gene variants) an organism possesses, which dictates its potential traits and interacts with the environment to produce the phenotype.
The story behind the word. Also coined by Wilhelm Johannsen in 1909, 'genotype' combines 'gene' with the Greek typos ('type' or 'impression'). It literally means 'the type of genes,' referring to the underlying genetic makeup that determines an organism's potential characteristics, acting as its internal blueprint.
Word relationships
- genetic makeup: More common and less technical.
- genetic constitution: Formal and precise.
- phenotype: The observable traits, not the genetic makeup.
Commonly confused with
- phenotype: The 'genotype' is the underlying genetic code, while the 'phenotype' is the observable expression of traits resulting from that code and environmental interaction.
Collocations
- specific genotype
- homozygous genotype
- heterozygous genotype
Example sentences
- "Although two individuals might have the same phenotype, their underlying genotype could be different if one carries a recessive allele." Explaining genetic makeup.
- "Genetic testing can reveal an individual's genotype for specific genes, indicating predispositions to certain conditions." Referring to genetic analysis.
Memory hook
'Genotype' is the 'GENEtic' code, the 'GENE-print.' Genetic blueprint.
When not to use
Don't confuse 'genotype' with 'phenotype' (the observable traits). The genotype is the potential or instruction set.
Fun facts
- While your genotype is largely fixed at conception, the way it's expressed (your phenotype) can be influenced by diet, lifestyle, and other environmental factors.
- The study of how environmental factors influence gene expression without changing the underlying genotype is called epigenetics.
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.