adjective

recessive

recessive

Blue eyes are a recessive trait.

Blue eyes are a recessive trait.

The recessive gene only appears under certain conditions.

The recessive gene only appears under certain conditions.

((recessive)) + noun a recessive trait/gene Blue eyes are a recessive trait.

Synonyms: dormant, latent; Antonyms: dominant

From Latin 'recedere' (to go back, withdraw). 're-' (back) + 'cedere' (to go). A recessive gene 'goes back' or hides behind a dominant one.

Think of 'recess' - a time to step back. A recessive gene 'steps back' or hides when a dominant gene is present.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.