homeobox

noun

ho·​meo·​box ˈhō-mē-ə-ˌbäks How to pronounce homeobox (audio)
: a short usually highly conserved DNA sequence in various eukaryotic genes and especially homeotic genes that encodes a DNA-binding amino acid domain of some proteins

Examples of homeobox in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hox genes and digits One of the key regulators of limb development is a set of genes called homeobox proteins, which attach to DNA and regulate the activity of nearby genes. John Timmer, ArsTechnica, 17 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1984, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of homeobox was in 1984

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Cite this Entry

“Homeobox.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/homeobox. Accessed 21 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

homeobox

noun
ho·​meo·​box ˈhō-mē-ō-ˌbäks How to pronounce homeobox (audio)
: a short usually highly conserved DNA sequence in various genes and especially homeotic genes that encodes a homeodomain

More from Merriam-Webster on homeobox

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