recessive

recessive /re·ces·sive/ (re-ses´iv)

1. tending to recede; in genetics, incapable of expression unless the responsible allele is carried by both members of a pair of homologous chromosomes.

2. a recessive allele or trait.

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re·ces·sive (r-ssv)

adj.

1. Tending to go backward or recede.

2. Of, relating to, or being an allele that does not produce a characteristic effect when present with a dominant allele.

3. Of, relating to, or being a trait expressed only when the determining allele is present in the homozygous condition.

n.

1. A recessive allele or trait.

2. An organism having a recessive trait.

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Recessive

Refers to an inherited characteristic or trait that is expressed only when two copies of the gene responsible for it are present.

Mentioned in: Ataxia-Telangiectasia, Lipidoses, Phenylketonuria

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recessive

[rises′iv]

Etymology: L, recedere

pertaining to or describing a gene, the effect of which is masked or hidden if there is a dominant gene at the same locus. If both genes are recessive and produce the same trait, the trait is expressed in the individual.

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recessive

Genetics A genetic trait that is not phenotypically expressed in a heterozygous or partially heterozygous cell, but rather only in a homozygous or hemizygous state. See Phenotype, Trait. Cf Dominant.