Definition of Genotype

Genotype: The genetic constitution (the genome) of a cell, an individual or an organism. The genotype is distinct from its expressed features, or phenotype.

The genotype of a person is her or his genetic makeup. It can pertain to all genes or to a specific gene.

By contrast, the phenotype results from the interaction between the genotype and the environment. It is the composite of the characteristics shown by the cell, individual or organism under a particular set of environmental conditions.