genetic load

noun

the extent to which a population deviates from the theoretically fittest genetic constitution.

Origin of genetic load

First recorded in 1965–70

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

genetic load in Medicine

genetic load

n.

The aggregate of deleterious genes that are carried, mostly hidden, in the genome of a population and that may be transmitted to descendants.

The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.

genetic load in Science

genetic load

The aggregate of deleterious genes that are carried, mostly hidden, in the genome of a population and may be transmitted to descendants. Inbreeding usually causes an increase in genetic load.

The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.