dy|ad

dy|ad «DY ad», noun, adjective.

–n.

1. a group of two; couple; duad.

2. Biology. a) one of the groups of chromosome pairs formed when a tetrad splits: »

In the two divisions that follow, the tetrads are divided in two planes, first into double bodies called dyads, next into their single components (A. Franklin Shull).

b) a secondary unit of organization consisting of an aggregate of monads or single-celled organisms.

3. Chemistry. an element, atom, or radical having a valence of 2.

4. a meaningful dialogue, encounter, or relationship between two people: »

The T-group has a special lingo, a mixture of hippie talk and social science jargon. People are always “hung-up” or “uptight,” trying to discover “where I'm at.” They don't talk; they “have a dyad” (Ted J. Rakstis).

–adj.

= dyadic. (Cf. ↑dyadic)

╂[< Latin dyas, dyadis < Greek dyás, -ádos two in number. See etym. at duad. (Cf. ↑duad)]