Dominant Allele
Definition
A dominant allele is an allele that expresses itself fully in an organism's appearance and masks the effect of any recessive allele present at the same locus on its homologous chromosome.
Analogy
Consider dominant alleles like loud speakers at a concert. Even if there are other sounds (recessive alleles) in the background, the loud speakers (dominant alleles) will drown them out and be what you hear (expressed trait).
Related terms
Recessive Allele: An allele that can be masked by a dominant allele.
Genotype: The genetic makeup of an organism; combination of alleles.
Phenotype: The physical expression or characteristics of an organism's genotype.
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