diploid

Definition

Of a cell, having a pair of each type of chromosome, one of the pair being derived from the ovum and the other from the spermatozoon. Most somatic cells of higher organisms are diploid.

Etymology

From diplo- + -oid. By surface analysis, di- + -ploid.

Example Sentences

• "It has been shown, however, that triploid forms producing diploid gametes in one sex and haploid ones in the other sex can act as a stepping stone towards tetraploidization (triploid bridge; [ 93 – 95 ])."

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