dna

noun

1. (abbreviation, alt-of, countable, initialism, uncountable)Initialism of deoxyribonucleic acid (“a nucleic acid found in all living things (and some non-living things such as certain viruses) which consists of two polynucleotide chains that coil around each other to form a double helix; encoded in its structure are genetic instructions for development, functioning, growth, and reproduction”).

   “Among the various fractions isolated was one presumed to contain only desoxyribosenucleic acid (DNA). Because of certain speculations on the role of nucleic acids in protein synthesis it was necessary to measure and compare the rate of phosphate entry into DNA with that in other fractions of yeast phosphate.”

   “We wish to suggest a structure for the salt of deoxyribose nucleic acid (D.N.A.). This structure has novel features which are of considerable biological interest.”

   “As you know, heredity resides in our genes. Our genes are, in turn, composed of complex molecules called DNA. About 10 years ago we learned how to synthesize DNA in the test tube with the use of a certain cellular catalyst or enzyme. […] During the past year, we have been able to synthesize DNA which has the full genetic activity of natural DNA.”

   “Recent breakthroughs in DNA technology are expected to provide investigators with powerful forensic tools to help solve these difficult kinds of cases.”

   “Because of her significant testing, Avery had had DNA sequencing of her “exome,” the part of her genome that makes proteins in the body, said Dr. Michael Wangler, a researcher at the Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s Hospital.”

2. (broadly, countable, informal, uncountable)The part of a living thing that carries genetic information.
3. (countable, figuratively, uncountable)The fundamental nature or values of a person, or an organization or other thing, especially when considered as innate or immutable.

   “These ingredients in a company's DNA mean that [the] company will attract and grow leaders with these qualities.”

   “The main leadership priority at Level 2 is creating the business's DNA by defining how all the moving parts of the company will work, both independently and together.”

   “But this new fixation on guns is […] coming from the hardcore MAGA set, and not only is it likely to stick around beyond the primaries, it's likely hardwired into the DNA of a party now driven by extremism, conspiracy, and a belief that violence is a legitimate tool to achieve desired political outcomes.”

   “We cannot have a culture that sees safeguarding as a separate add-on. It needs to be part of our DNA, as an expression of our love for one another and our commitment to the Gospel.”

4. (alt-of, alternative, countable, uncountable)Alternative form of DNA.

verb

1. (transitive)To examine a sample of (someone's) deoxyribonucleic acid.

   “The only way we're gonna know is if we DNA him against the spunk in Karen.”

   “The barrister went on to say that his client 'remains persecuted and victimised. He has been DNAed; his hair, his blood and his clothes. Nothing. No charges have ever been brought.'”

   “Maybe nothing to do with the break-in, but worth fingerprinting the wrapper and DNAing the gum.”

2. (US)To place (someone) under a DNA (do not arm) order because of mental illness.

   “She had her weapons back. She wasn't DNA'd anymore. But she didn't use a weapon. That's not how she did it.”

name

1. (US, historical)Defense Nuclear Agency, an agency of the United States Department of Defense which existed from 1971 to 1996 and has since been reorganized as the Defense Threat Reduction Agency.

phrase

1. Did not answer.
2. Did not arrive (used when someone fails to keep an appointment).
3. Did not attend.
4. Do not assume.
5. Does not apply.
6. Drugs 'n' alcohol.
7. (US)Do not arm (that is, do not provide with a firearm).