heredity

[huh-red-i-tee]

noun

Biology.

plural

heredities 

1. the transmission of genetic characters from parents to offspring: it is dependent upon the segregation and recombination of genes during meiosis and fertilization and results in the genesis of a new individual similar to others of its kind but exhibiting certain variations resulting from the particular mix of genes and their interactions with the environment.

2. the genetic characters so transmitted.

heredity

/ hɪˈrɛdɪtɪ /

noun

1. the transmission from one generation to another of genetic factors that determine individual characteristics: responsible for the resemblances between parents and offspring

2. the sum total of the inherited factors or their characteristics in an organism

heredity

1. The passage of biological traits or characteristics from parents to offspring through the inheritance of genes.

heredity

1. The passing of characteristics from parents to children. (See genetics.)

Word History and Origins

Origin of heredity¹

First recorded in 1530–40; from Middle French heredite, from Latin hērēditāt-, stem of hērēditās “inheritance,” from hērēd- (stem of hērēs ) heir + -itās -ity

Word History and Origins

Origin of heredity¹

C16: from Old French heredite, from Latin hērēditās inheritance; see _heir

Example Sentences

Holmes’ words were a quintessential expression of “eugenics,” a pseudoscientific notion that social problems can be alleviated by focusing on heredity, and sequestering, forcibly sterilizing or even murdering those whose genetic heritage jeopardizes civilization.

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From the description of skin as “blue black” to the blues as a musical genre, the color blue and its many shades intertwine with African American heredity, history and heritage.

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Using this data on heredity, the researchers have been able to categorise patients into three different groups.

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The emperor was not chosen by heredity, like most other monarchies.

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It’s a Gothic, environmental take on heredity as well as inheritance, with one of the Haddesley daughters, Wenna, challenging both as human and earthen secrets bubble to the surface.

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