RECESSIVE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "recessive" is an adjective that refers to an inherited trait or characteristic that is only expressed or manifested in an individual when the respective gene present in a pair of genes is inherited from both parents. In genetics, this trait is denoted as lowercase letters, indicating its hidden or suppressed nature when compared to its counterpart gene.
A recessive trait is masked or overridden by the dominant trait, which is expressed when an individual inherits a dominant gene from at least one parent. In order for the recessive trait to be visible or observable, both copies of the gene must be recessive, resulting in the absence or inhibition of the dominant factor. This implies that a recessive trait is often less common or less frequently displayed in a population, as it requires the presence of two recessive genes.
Mendelian genetics serve as the foundation for understanding recessive traits, demonstrating that offspring can inherit traits from their parents based on specific patterns. Through Punnett squares and genetic crosses, scientists can predict the likelihood of certain traits being expressed in future generations based on the presence or absence of recessive genes.
In summary, "recessive" refers to a genetic trait that is only expressed when an individual inherits two copies of the recessive gene. It is masked by a dominant trait and is typically less common or visible in a population.
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The characteristic of one or the other parent which appears in the minority of the descendants; see Mendel's law.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Etymology of RECESSIVE
The word "recessive" is derived from the Latin term "recessus", which means "a retreat" or "a withdrawal". It comes from the verb "recedere", combining the prefix "re-" (indicating backward movement or withdrawal) and the root "cedere" (meaning "to go" or "to yield"). In English, the word "recessive" initially appeared in the early 19th century, specifically in the field of genetics, to describe a particular type of genetic trait that appears less prominently or is masked by a dominant trait.
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