continuous variation

American  

noun

Biology.

1. variation in phenotypic traits such as body weight or height in which a series of types are distributed on a continuum rather than grouped into discrete categories.

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continuous variation Scientific  

1. Variation within a population in which a graded series of intermediate phenotypes falls between the extremes. Height in human beings, for example, exists in continuous variation.

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Etymology

Origin of continuous variation

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Offspring appear to be a “blend” of their parents’ traits when we look at characteristics that exhibit continuous variation.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

It does appear that offspring are a “blend” of their parents’ traits when we look at characteristics that exhibit continuous variation.

From Textbooks • Apr. 25, 2013

This hypothetical process appeared to be correct because of what we know now as continuous variation.

From Textbooks • Apr. 25, 2013

If no one of these parameters is capable of continuous variation, the group is called a discontinuous group.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 12, Slice 6 "Groups, Theory of" to "Gwyniad" by Various

Acting in a continuous way, it has been able to produce a continuous variation in a constant direction.

From Creative Evolution by Mitchell, Arthur