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.

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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

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genetics Scientific  

/ jə-nĕt′ĭks /

1. The scientific study of the principles of heredity and the variation of inherited traits among related organisms.

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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.)

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Etymology

Origin of genetics

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

Compare meaning

How does genetics compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• heredity vs. genetics

Example Sentences

While genetics and natural aging play a role, medical professionals say constant phone use can exacerbate the issue, including in younger adults.

From The Wall Street Journal

Even though the fish shared similar genetics and lived in the same controlled conditions, they aged in very different ways.

From Science Daily

Staining can come from genetics or from everyday foods and drinks like coffee and tomatoes.

From Science Daily

Students have received less rigorous preclinical education in genetics, biochemistry and epidemiology.

From The Wall Street Journal

According to Emily Willoughby, a researcher in behavioural genetics at the University of Minnesota, childhood and adolescence provide a genuine window of opportunity for shaping attitudes.

From BBC

Related Words

• ancestry
• lineage