Recessive

Definition

A recessive trait or gene is one that can be carried in a person's genes without appearing in that person. It can only be expressed (appear) when two copies are present (one from each parent).

Related terms

Heterozygous:

Refers to having inherited different forms of a particular gene from each parent.

Carrier: An individual who carries and is capable of passing on a genetic mutation associated with disease and may or may not display disease symptoms.

Punnett Square:

A diagram that is used to predict an outcome of a particular cross or breeding experiment.