What are pairs of chromosomes referred to as?

The term for pairs of chromosomes is homologous. Homologous chromosomes represent a set of chromosomes from each parent that are similar in shape, size, and genetic content. Each pair consists of one chromosome inherited from the mother and one from the father, and they carry genes for the same traits in the same order, although the specific alleles (gene variants) may differ.

Haploid refers to the condition of cells that contain only one set of chromosomes, such as gametes (sperm and egg cells), which do not form chromosome pairs. Diploid describes cells that contain two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent, which includes pairs of homologous chromosomes. Chromatid refers to one half of a duplicated chromosome; during cell division, chromosomes are formed by two sister chromatids joined at the centromere, but this does not refer specifically to pairs of chromosomes as a whole. Overall, homologous is the most accurate term to describe pairs of chromosomes due to their similar composition and origin.