polysome: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very low (C2)Technical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “polysome” mean?
A cluster of ribosomes simultaneously translating a single messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A cluster of ribosomes simultaneously translating a single messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule.
In cell biology, a polysome (or polyribosome) is a structure where multiple ribosomes move along an mRNA strand to synthesize multiple copies of the same protein. The term is sometimes used in educational linguistics to describe a compound word with multiple morphemes, though this is highly technical and rare.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Both use the term identically in scientific literature.
Connotations
Purely scientific, no cultural connotations.
Frequency
Equally rare in both varieties, confined to specialized fields.
Grammar
How to Use “polysome” in a Sentence
The polysome [verb: sediments/assembles/disassembles] rapidly.Researchers [verb: observed/isolated] the polysome.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “polysome” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The mRNA began to polysome upon activation.
- The complex polysomed under ideal conditions.
American English
- The mRNA polysomed rapidly after injection.
- Under stress, the mRNA fails to polysome efficiently.
adverb
British English
- The ribosomes associated polysomally.
American English
- The mRNA was translated polysomally.
adjective
British English
- The polysomal profile indicated high translational activity.
- Polysome analysis is a standard technique.
American English
- They obtained a polysomal fraction from the lysate.
- The polysome distribution was abnormal.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Core term in molecular biology papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Never used.
Technical
Primary context: describing active protein synthesis in a cell.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “polysome”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “polysome”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “polysome”
- Mispronouncing as 'polly-sohm'. Stress is on the first syllable: POL-ee-sohm.
- Using it as a general term for any polymer or complex.
- Confusing spelling with 'polysemy'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are perfect synonyms. 'Polyribosome' is slightly more descriptive but less commonly used in modern literature.
No, it is a highly specialized scientific term. It would be unknown and inappropriate in general conversation.
To increase the efficiency of protein synthesis by allowing many copies of a protein to be made simultaneously from a single mRNA template.
Yes, they are a fundamental feature of translation in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.
A cluster of ribosomes simultaneously translating a single messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule.
Polysome is usually technical / scientific in register.
Polysome: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpɒl.ɪ.səʊm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpɑː.lɪ.soʊm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a POLY-phone (many phones) where people hear the same message. A POLYsome is many ribosomes 'hearing' (translating) the same mRNA message.
Conceptual Metaphor
A factory assembly line: The mRNA is the instruction manual, and multiple ribosomes (workers) are spaced along it, each building the same product (protein).
Practice
Quiz
What is a polysome?