Genotype

/ˈdʒiːnəˌtaɪp/ noun

Definition

The genetic makeup of an organism — the specific set of genes it carries, whether or not they are visible in its appearance.

Etymology

From *geno-* (from *gene*) + *-type* meaning “kind, model.” Coined in the early 1900s to contrast with *phenotype*, which is the observable traits. The word helps separate hidden genetic information from outward characteristics.

Kelly Says

Two people can look similar (same phenotype) but have different genotypes, like carrying different hidden disease risks. Your genotype is like the full recipe book; your phenotype is the actual dish that came out, influenced by both the recipe and the kitchen conditions.

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