One of a series of multiple genes involved in quantitative inheritance.
One of a number of genes that together control a single characteristic in an individual. Each polygene has only a slight effect and the expression of a set of polygenes is the result of their combined interaction. Characteristics controlled by polygenes are usually of a quantitative nature, e.g. height.
One of several genes that between them control a single characteristic in an individual. With each polygene exerting a slight effect, the genetic outcome is the consequence of ‘group action. The hereditary characteristics produced in this way are usually those of a quantitative type for instance, an individual’s height.