allele
This term describes the specific variation of a genetic sequence. While a gene provides the general instruction for a trait, such as eye color, the allele is the specific version of that instruction, such as blue or brown. It is a technical term used almost exclusively in biological and medical contexts.
Using this word implies a focus on the diversity within a population. It shifts the conversation from what a gene does in general to how specific individuals differ from one another based on their inherited genetic blueprints.
Countable when referring to the specific versions of a gene found in an organism, such as having two different alleles for a single trait.
💬Casual Conversation
Just read that my eye color is a recessive allele. Pretty wild, right?
Just read that my eye color is a recessive allele. Pretty wild, right?
Cool. I'm currently drowning in those slide decks you sent over.
Cool. I'm currently drowning in those slide decks you sent over.
Meanings
Examples
The plant possesses a dominant allele for purple flowers and a recessive allele for white flowers.