More fully "Hox gene". (The name of) a homeobox gene. Also, with distinguishing (frequently affixed) letter or numeral: any of several clusters of homeobox genes occurring in vertebrate genomes; any of the loci making up such a cluster.
Origin
1980s. Shortened from homeobox.
Definition of Hox in US English:
Hox
(also hox)
nounhɒks
Genetics
More fully "Hox gene". (The name of) a homeobox gene. Also, with distinguishing (frequently affixed) letter or numeral: any of several clusters of homeobox genes occurring in vertebrate genomes; any of the loci making up such a cluster.