# genotype

/ˈdʒɛnəˌtaɪp/ (US) · /dʒˈɛnətˌaɪp/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/genotype
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

the specific set of genes that an organism has. It is the genetic blueprint that determines how an organism develops and functions.

For teachers: the genetic constitution of an organism, specifically the combination of alleles present at a particular locus or the entire set of genes.

## Examples

- The scientist studied the genotype of the plant to see how it would grow.
- While two siblings may look very different, they often share the same genotype because they inherited genes from the same parents.
- The research team compared the genotype of the laboratory mice with their phenotypic traits to understand how specific genetic variations influence behavior under stress.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.