adjective

recessive

recessive

Blue eyes are a recessive trait.

Blue eyes are a recessive trait.

The economy is in a recessive period.

The economy is in a recessive period.

recessive ((noun)) relating to a gene that is not expressed when a dominant one is present. Blue eyes are a recessive trait.

Synonyms: dormant, latent; Antonyms: dominant

From Latin 'recedere' (to go back, withdraw), from 're-' (back) + 'cedere' (to go).

Think of 'recede', like a hairline receding. A recessive gene 'recedes' or hides behind a dominant one.

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