homologous

[huh-mol-uh-guh s]

homologous Definition

• 1. having the same relation, relative position, or structure, in particular.
• 2. Biology: having the same or a similar relation; corresponding, as in relative position or structure.

Using homologous: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "homologous" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The wings of a bird and the arms of a human are homologous structures.

• Example

  The two species have homologous genes that code for the same protein.

• Example

  The two words have homologous meanings in different languages.

homologous Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for homologous

• corresponding
• analogous
• related
• similar
• equivalent

Antonyms for homologous

• different
• unrelated
• dissimilar

Phrases with homologous

• homologous chromosomes

  a pair of chromosomes that contain the same genes in the same order

  Example

  During meiosis, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic information.

• homologous series

  a series of organic compounds with similar structures and chemical properties, differing from each other by a repeating unit

  Example

  The alkanes are a homologous series of hydrocarbons.

• homologous recombination

  the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes

  Example

  Homologous recombination is an important mechanism for DNA repair.

Origins of homologous

from Greek 'homologos', meaning 'agreeing'

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Summary: homologous in Brief

The term 'homologous' [huh-mol-uh-guh s] refers to having the same relation, relative position, or structure. In biology, it refers to having the same or similar relation, corresponding in relative position or structure. Examples include homologous structures like the wings of a bird and the arms of a human, and homologous genes that code for the same protein. The term extends into phrases like 'homologous chromosomes,' which are pairs of chromosomes that contain the same genes in the same order.