In genetics, which meaning of 'dominant' is used to describe a trait?

• A. More important than similar things
• B. Acting under someone else
• C. Not visible
• D. Not relevant

Answer: (A)

Dominant here uses the sense of being more powerful or influential—something that stands out or determines what happens when there are multiple options. In everyday language, a dominant trait is the one that tends to be seen or to prevail over others. In genetics this idea helps explain why a dominant allele often determines the phenotype even when a different allele is present.

So the best choice captures that idea of being more influential or primary, which is why it fits. The other meanings describe being subordinate, unseen, or not relevant, which don’t reflect the sense of dominance.