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Synonyms

genetics

American  
[juh-net-iks] / dʒəˈnɛt ɪks /

noun

(used with a singular verb)
  1. Biology. the science of heredity, dealing with resemblances and differences of related organisms resulting from the interaction of their genes and the environment.

  2. the genetic properties and phenomena of an organism.


genetics British  
/ dʒɪˈnɛtɪks /

noun

  1. (functioning as singular) the branch of biology concerned with the study of heredity and variation in organisms

  2. the genetic features and constitution of a single organism, species, or group

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

genetics Scientific  
/ jə-nĕtĭks /
  1. The scientific study of the principles of heredity and the variation of inherited traits among related organisms.


genetics Cultural  
  1. The study of heredity, or how the characteristics of living things are transmitted from one generation to the next. Every living thing contains the genetic material that makes up DNA molecules. This material is passed on when organisms reproduce. The basic unit of heredity is the gene. (See chromosomes; dominant trait; genetic code; Gregor Mendel; recessive trait; and sexual reproduction.)


Etymology

Origin of genetics

First recorded in 1905; genetic, -ics; term first proposed in this sense by British biologist William Bateson (1861–1926)

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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Addiction is a complex disorder with intermingled roots in genetics, biology and environmental triggers.

From Los Angeles Times

Some back problems are unavoidable because they are linked to injuries, arthritis or genetics.

From Science Daily

Over the past several years, scientists have increasingly recognized that the gut microbiome acts as a key link between genetics, environmental factors, and the development of metabolic disorders.

From Science Daily

Kennedy, an attorney who has no medical or scientific training, has called research into autism’s genetics a “dead end.”

From Los Angeles Times

Many influences contribute to this trend, including genetics and low levels of physical activity, but diet plays a central role.

From Science Daily