X-linked inheritance, a pattern of inheritance in which the transmission of traits varies according to the sex of the person, because the genes on the X chromosome have no counterparts on the Y chromosome. The inheritance pattern may be recessive or dominant. The trait determined by a gene on the X chromosome is always expressed in males. Transmission from father to son does not occur. Compare autosomal inheritance. Kinds include X-linked–dominant inheritance, X-linked–recessive inheritance. See also sex-linked.
