a threadlike strand of DNA in the cell nucleus that carries the genes in a linear order
"humans have 22 chromosome pairs plus two sex chromosomes"
A linear arrangement of condensed DNA and associated proteins (such as chaperone proteins) which contains the genetic material (genome) of an organism.
"During cell division, each chromosome appears as a distinct linear structure composed of tightly condensed DNA and associated proteins that carry the organism's complete genetic information."
In plain English: A chromosome is a long strand of DNA that holds all your genes inside it to keep you alive and growing.
"Every human cell contains 23 pairs of chromosomes that carry our genetic instructions."
Usage: Chromosome refers to the specific structure within cell nuclei that carries genes, distinct from the broader term genome which denotes all genetic material. Use this word when discussing physical units of heredity passed during reproduction or division rather than abstract concepts like DNA sequences alone.
The word chromosome comes from the German term Chromosom, which is derived from Ancient Greek words meaning "colored body." It was coined in the 19th century because these structures appear colored when stained under a microscope.