phenetics

[fi-net-iks]

noun (used with a singular verb) Biology.

classification of organisms based on measurable similarities and differences rather than genetic makeup and evolutionary descent.

Origin of phenetics

see origin at phenetic, -ics

Related formsphe·net·i·cist

[fi-net-uh-sist] /fɪˈnɛt ə sɪst/, noun

Usage note

See -ics.

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

British Dictionary definitions for phenetics

phenetics

noun

(functioning as singular) biology a system of classification based on similarities between organisms without regard to their evolutionary relationships

Derived Formsphenetic, adjective

Word Origin for phenetics

C20: from phen (otype) + (gen) etics

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012