Definitions for chiasmas

• Definition
• Anagrams (217)

chiasmas chi·as·ma

Spelling: [kahy-az-muh]

IPA: /kaɪˈæz mə/

Chiasmas is a 8 letter English word. It's valid Scrabble word worth 14 points. It's valid Words with friends word worth 15 points.

You can make 217 anagrams from letters in chiasmas (aachimss).

Definitions for chiasmas

noun

1. Anatomy. a crossing or decussation, as that of the optic nerves at the base of the brain.
2. Cell Biology. a point of overlap of paired chromatids at which fusion and exchange of genetic material take place during prophase of meiosis.

Origin of chiasmas

1830-40; Greek: crosspiece of wood, cross-bandage, equivalent to chi chi¹ + -asma noun suffix

Examples for chiasmas

In the sharks, rays, chimæras, and Ganoids the two optic nerves are joined in a chiasma as in the higher vertebrates.

We know that they are directly connected by fibres that arch round through the chiasma.

At the base of the section are seen the optic nerves and their chiasma.

From the under side of these, nerves run to the eyes with or without a chiasma or crossing.

The nerves are fibrous, and a commencement of the chiasma is certainly present.