Definition of Meiosis

Meiosis: The process of germ cell formation. During meiosis, each chromosome pairs with the other chromosome in the pair and they exchange segments of genetic material. In both women and men, the autosomes (non-sex chromosomes) pair. In women, the X chromosomes pair; and in men, the X and Y chromosome pair. After the exchange of genetic material, the chromosomes separate, and meiosis continues. The chromosome number is reduced from 46 to 23 in meiosis.