Definition of "locus" in English

noun

1. A place or locality, especially a centre of activity or the scene of a crime.

   • The cafeteria was the locus of activity.

2. (mathematics) The set of all points whose coordinates satisfy a given equation or condition.

   • A circle is the locus of points from which the distance to the center is a given value, the radius.

3. (genetics) A fixed position on a string of DNA or RNA, especially a chromosome, that may be occupied by one or more genes.

   • Holonyms: subband < band < region < replicon
   • Meronyms: sublocus; gene, cistron; pseudogene

4. (chiefly in the plural) A passage in writing, especially in a collection of ancient sacred writings arranged according to a theme.