Chiasma

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /kʌɪˈazmÉ™/

Alternative forms

• chiasm

Origin

Modern Latin, from Ancient Greek χίασμα, from χίαζειν ("to mark with the letter chi").

Full definition of chiasma

Noun

1. (anatomy) A crossing of two nerves, ligaments etc.
2. (genetics, cytology) The contact point between the two chromatids of a chromosome during meiosis.

Derived terms

• optic chiasma