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1. (genetics) cell division that produces reproductive cells in sexually reproducing organisms; the nucleus divides into four nuclei each containing half the chromosome number (leading to gametes in animals and spores in plants)
   - miosis, reduction division
    
2. Understatement for rhetorical effect (especially when expressing an affirmative by negating its contrary)
   - litotes

Derived forms: meioses

See also: meiotic

Type of: cell division, cellular division, rhetorical device, understatement

Encyclopedia: Meiosis