Meiosis (noun)

1. A type of cell division that reduces the number of chromosomes in a cell by half, producing four haploid daughter cells.
2. The process of cell division in which a diploid cell divides into four haploid cells, each with half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell.

Origin:

From the greek word "meiosis" meaning "lessening, reduction".

Examples:

1. Meiosis is responsible for the formation of eggs and sperm.
2. Meiosis occurs in the gonads, producing gametes.
3. Meiosis ensures that the genetic diversity of a population is maintained.
4. Meiosis is necessary for sexual reproduction.
5. Meiosis is a key process in the life cycle of organisms.