What is another word for recessive allele?
Pronunciation: [ɹɪsˈɛsɪv ɐlˈiːl] (IPA) 
Recessive allele, also known as a recessive gene, is a specific form of a gene that can only be expressed when paired with another recessive allele. Synonyms for recessive alleles include hidden genes, latent genes, and masked genes. These synonyms describe why recessive alleles aren't expressed commonly. Hidden genes sometimes aren't visible and become apparent upon inbreeding. Latent genes describe similar behavior where the gene is present, but the expression is masked. Subsequently, masked genes describe how these genes are completely covered up by dominant alleles. Other synonyms include hidden traits, hidden characteristics, and non-dominant genes. These terms describe recessive alleles and help to simplify genetic discussions where the term "recessive allele" may not be understood.
