a crossing point or junction of structures, especially in anatomy where nerve fibers or chromosomes cross.
From Greek chiasma ('a marking with an X'), from chiazein ('to mark with X-shape'). The Greek letter chi (X) inspired the anatomical term.
In genetics, chiasmata are where chromosomes swap pieces during meiosis—it's literally a biological crossroads where your genes get shuffled to create variation!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.