mi·cro·sat·el·lite (m??kr?-s?t?l-?t?)n.1. A short sequence of DNA consisting of multiple repetitions of a set of two to nine base pairs, used as a genetic marker when individuals differ in the number of repetitions.2. A small artificial satellite, usually with a mass of less than 100 kilograms (220 pounds) when deployed in orbit.American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.microsatellite (?ma?kr???sæt??la?t) n (Genetics) genetics a section of DNA consisting of very short nucleotide sequences repeated many times, the number of repeats varying between members of the species: used as a marker in determining genetic diversity, identifying important genetic traits, and in forensics, population studies, and paternity studiesCollins English Dictionary ? Complete and Unabridged, 12th Edition 2014 © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014