epigenetics

American  

[ep-i-juh-net-iks] / ˌɛp ɪ dʒəˈnɛt ɪks /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. Genetics. the study of the process by which genetic information is translated into the substance and behavior of an organism: specifically, the study of the way in which the expression of heritable traits is modified by environmental influences or other mechanisms without a change to the DNA sequence.

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epigenetics British  

/ ˌɛpɪdʒɪˈnɛtɪks /

noun

1. the study of heritable changes that occur without a change in the DNA sequence

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epigenetics Scientific  

/ ĕp′ĭ-jə-nĕt′ĭks /

1. The study of heritable changes in gene expression caused by factors such as DNA methylation rather than by a change in the sequence of base pairs in DNA itself.

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Etymology

Origin of epigenetics

Coined in 1942 by English biologist Conrad H. Waddington (1905–75); blend of epigenesis and genetics

Explanation

Epigenetics is the study of changes in genes that are caused by a person's environment rather than alterations to their DNA. Scientists in the field of epigenetics are interested in the way our behavior and experiences can influence our gene expression — essentially, which of our genes get turned on or off. They look at factors like early loving relationships, environmental toxins, and healthy food, and study how they change the way people's genes function. Epigenetics adds the Greek prefix epi-, "over or on top of," to genetics, "the study of heredity."

Example Sentences

In short, epigenetics is, at most, Lamarckism lite.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

There is also a developing field of research into epigenetics, which asks whether the experience of trauma by one generation can show up in later generations through changes in the way our genes behave.

From BBC • Dec. 29, 2025

A person’s lifestyle, diet, and environment, he notes, can exert considerable influence on epigenetics, making it difficult to determine what constitutes a “normal” amount of biological aging.

From Science Magazine • Mar. 22, 2024

For example, identical twins share nearly identical genetic material but exhibit variations in physical characteristics, behaviours and disease susceptibility due to the influence of epigenetics.

From Science Daily • Mar. 7, 2024

I write in my book, “Confessions of a Funeral Director,” that behavioral epigenetics have found that our experiences can be passed down on a molecular level.

From Salon • Oct. 29, 2017