Recessive (Adjective)

Meaning ¹

(of genes) producing its characteristic phenotype only when its allele is identical.

Classification

All adjective clusters.

Examples

• The recessive gene for blue eyes will not be expressed if the dominant allele for brown eyes is present in the individual's genotype.
• Cystic fibrosis is caused by a recessive mutation in the CFTR gene, meaning that a person must inherit two copies of the mutated gene to express the condition.
• The recessive allele for albinism is not present in the parents, but they are both carriers of the trait, so there is a chance their children could be albino.
• Red hair is caused by a recessive gene, so a person must inherit two copies of the gene to express the trait.
• The recessive gene for a certain type of dwarfism is linked to an increased risk of other health problems, making it a concern for genetic counselors.

Antonyms

• Dominant

Meaning ²

Of or pertaining to a recession.

Classification

Relational adjectives (pertainyms).

Synonyms

• Recessionary

Related Words

• Recession (noun)