Weismannism

American  

[vahys-mahn-iz-uhm] / ˈvaɪs mɑnˌɪz əm /

noun

Biology.

1. the theories of heredity as expounded by Weismann, especially the theory that all inheritable characteristics are carried in the germ plasm, and that acquired characteristics cannot be inherited.

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Weismannism British  

/ ˈvaɪsmənˌɪzəm /

noun

1. the doctrine of the continuity of the germ plasm. This theory of heredity states that all inheritable characteristics are transmitted by the reproductive cells and that characteristics acquired during the lifetime of the organism are not inherited

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Other Word Forms

• Weismannian adjective

Etymology

Origin of Weismannism

First recorded in 1890–95; Weismann + -ism

Example Sentences

Weismannism has held the field since 1890 and still dominates the thinking of most biologists.

From Time Magazine Archive

It is a polemic against Weismannism in all details, even to the theory of “germinal selection.”

From Naturalism And Religion by Otto, Rudolf

Fortuitously initiated development is a condition sine qua non of Darwinism and Weismannism.

From At the Deathbed of Darwinism A Series of Papers by O'Harra, Edwin V.

New doctrines and improved methods of enquiry have arisen—Mutationism, Mendelism, Weismannism, Neo-Lamarckism, Biometrics, Eugenics and what not—are being diligently exploited.

From The Coming of Evolution The Story of a Great Revolution in Science by John W.

It must be understood that when I speak of Weismannism I do not refer to this whole theory of heredity, which, he acknowledges, has few supporters.

From The Story of Evolution by McCabe, Joseph