chiasmal

chi·as·ma  (k-zm) also chi·asm (kzm)

n. pl. chi·as·ma·ta (-m-t) or chi·as·mas also chi·asms

1. Anatomy A crossing or intersection of two tracts, as of nerves or ligaments.

2. Genetics The point of contact between paired chromatids during meiosis, resulting in a cross-shaped configuration and representing the cytological manifestation of crossing over.

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[Greek khasma, cross-piece, from khazein, to mark with an X, from khei, kh, chi (from the letter's shape).]

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chi·asmal, chi·asmic, chias·matic (-mtk) adj.

Thesaurus

Adj.

1.

chiasmal - of or relating to a chiasm chiasmatic, chiasmic anatomy, general anatomy - the branch of morphology that deals with the structure of animals