1. relating to or denoting a chromosome in which the centromere is located at or near the middle
Usage: biology
2. relating to the metacenter of a floating body
Usage: nautical; engineering

Examples

• The metacentric chromosome showed equal arm lengths on both sides of the centromere.
• Human chromosome 1 is an example of a metacentric chromosome.
• The karyotype analysis revealed several metacentric chromosomes in the sample.
• The ship’s metacentric height determines its stability in rough seas.
• Engineers calculated the metacentric properties of the vessel’s hull design.
• A positive metacentric height indicates that the boat will return to upright position when tilted.