1. (of genes) producing its characteristic phenotype only when its allele is identical
   "The recessive gene for blue eyes only appears when both parents contribute it"
    
2. Of or pertaining to a recession
   "The economy showed recessive tendencies";
   - recessionary

1. An allele that produces its characteristic phenotype only when its paired allele is identical
   "The recessive for blue eyes was expressed in both children";
   - recessive allele

Derived forms: recessives

Type of: allele, allelomorph

Antonym: dominant

Encyclopedia: Recessive