supergene
noun
su·per·gene
ˈsü-pər-ˌjēn 
: a group of linked genes acting as an allelic unit especially when due to the suppression of crossing-over
Examples of supergene in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
If those genes are somehow related, this can create a supergene, or multiple genes that act as a single unit.
—
Marlowe Starling,
Quanta Magazine,
21 May 2026
Our study revealed that the supergene shows only minimal signs of degeneration.
—
Donna L. Maney,
Scientific American,
18 Feb. 2025
However, Trible’s team found that most of the genetic differences between the ant parasites and its host relatives are in that supergene.
—
Byelizabeth Pennisi,
science.org,
6 Mar. 2023
Researchers still have much to learn about how that supergene controls so many features — not just color, but also wing shape, and even behaviors like flight speed.
—
Cody Cottier,
Discover Magazine,
1 Feb. 2022
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Marlowe Starling,
Quanta Magazine,
21 May 2026
Our study revealed that the supergene shows only minimal signs of degeneration.
—
Donna L. Maney,
Scientific American,
18 Feb. 2025
However, Trible’s team found that most of the genetic differences between the ant parasites and its host relatives are in that supergene.
—
Byelizabeth Pennisi,
science.org,
6 Mar. 2023
Researchers still have much to learn about how that supergene controls so many features — not just color, but also wing shape, and even behaviors like flight speed.
—
Cody Cottier,
Discover Magazine,
1 Feb. 2022
Cite this Entry
“Supergene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/supergene. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
supergene
noun
su·per·gene
ˈsü-pər-ˌjēn
: a group of linked genes acting as an allelic unit especially when due to the suppression of crossing-over
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