genetic code
nounUK /dʒəˈnɛtɪk kəʊd/
US /dʒəˈnɛtɪk koʊd/
The set of instructions inside living things that tells their cells how to grow and work.
Scientists study the genetic code to understand why some plants grow taller than others.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The rules by which the information in DNA is translated into proteins.
The genetic code maps three-letter DNA sequences to specific amino acids.
3. The complete set of genes in an organism.
Mapping the human genetic code was a major scientific achievement.
4. The inherited pattern of traits passed from parents to offspring.
The puppy's brown eyes come from its genetic code.