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Definition of: chiasm
(kī′az·əm) noun
1. Anat. An intersecting or X-like commissure which unites the optic nerves at the base of the brain.
2. Genetics The point of intersection of two chromosomes. Also chi·as·ma (kī·az′mə). [<NL chiasma <Gk. <chiazein mark with a chi]
—chi·as′mal, chi·as′mic adjective
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