English · Science & Technology
DNA
/ˌdiː.ɛnˈeɪ/
[/ˌdiː.ɛnˈeɪ/]
genetic material
Intermediatenoun
Definition
The molecule in living cells that carries the genetic instructions for growth and function.
Example
Scientists can now read a person's DNA to learn about their ancestry and health risks.
Scientists can now read a person's DNA to learn about their ancestry and health risks.
Etymology
An abbreviation of 'deoxyribonucleic acid', coined in the mid-20th century.
How & Where It’s Used
Central to genetics, forensics, and medicine.