What is the lagging strand in DNA replication?

The lagging strand in DNA replication is synthesized in short fragments known as Okazaki fragments. This is a result of the antiparallel nature of DNA and the fact that DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides in the 5' to 3' direction. Because the two strands of DNA are oriented in opposite directions, the lagging strand is synthesized discontinuously, moving away from the replication fork as the DNA unwinds.

These Okazaki fragments are later joined together by the enzyme DNA ligase to form a continuous strand. This process contrasts with the leading strand, which is synthesized continuously in the direction of the replication fork. Thus, the characterization of the lagging strand as one that is synthesized in short fragments accurately reflects its unique formation during DNA replication.