gene
The word 'gene' is a countable noun. You can use it in the singular ('a gene') or plural ('genes'). In everyday conversation, people often use 'genes' in a general sense to talk about inherited traits, such as saying 'good genes' when someone is naturally athletic or healthy.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon, Leo is in his room playing games while David is at the office.
David Smith
Just saw a doc on DNA. Pretty sure you got your gaming gene from me.
Leo Smith
Stop capping. You can't even find the start menu.
💡
David tries to bond with his son by claiming a biological connection to Leo's hobbies. Leo responds using 'capping' (Gen-Z slang for lying), highlighting the generational gap and his cynical view of his father's tech skills.
Meanings
noun
A unit of heredity which is transferred from a parent to offspring and is present as a specific nucleotide sequence on DNA.
"The gene for blue eyes can be recessive."
noun
A particular version or variant of a gene (allele).
"Scientists are studying the specific gene responsible for this rare condition."