1. sequences of three nucleotides in DNA or RNA that specify which amino acid will be added during protein synthesis
Usage: biology; genetics

Examples

• Each codon corresponds to a specific amino acid in the genetic code.
• The start codon AUG signals the beginning of protein synthesis.
• Stop codons terminate the translation process.
• Scientists study how mutations in codons affect protein function.
• There are 64 possible codons but only 20 amino acids.
• The codon table shows which amino acid each three-letter sequence codes for.