The pairing of homologous chromosomes is called:
Synapsis
Synapsis is the pairing of two homologous chromosomes that occur during meiosis. This takes place during the prophase stage of meiosis I. When homologous chromosomes pair, the homolouges cross over and exchange genetic material at certain points. This process is called crossing over. Crossing over is an interchange or reciprocal exchange of segment between chromatids of a homologous pair of chromosomes resulting in recombination of genes.