holandric gene
- noun
- /hoʊˈlændrɪk dʒiːn/
- Specialized
- A holandric gene is passed exclusively from father to son because it is found only on the Y chromosome.
Examples
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Some traits, such as certain forms of hairy ears, are influenced by holandric genes.
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Researchers study holandric genes to better understand patterns of male inheritance.
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The holandric gene is crucial for determining male traits.
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Many studies focus on holandric genes in genetic research.
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A holandric gene is passed exclusively from father to son because it is found only on the Y chromosome.
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Researchers study holandric genes to better understand patterns of male inheritance.
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Some traits, such as certain forms of hairy ears, are influenced by holandric genes.
Synonyms
A gene on the Y chromosome that only fathers pass to their sons
Surface Forms
Morphology
holandric + gene
The modifier 'holandric' is a rare, technical term not composed of transparent, commonly known English morphemes, so knowing 'gene' alone does not reveal the Y‑chromosome / male-line inheritance meaning. A B1 learner who knows the constituent 'gene' but not the specialized sense of 'holandric' would not be able to derive the expression's meaning, making it unpredictable without prior exposure.
Etymology
Holandric gene names a gene found on the Y chromosome, so only men have it. Think of it as a small family treasure a father hands to his son, which is why the gene is passed only 'father to son'.