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

The limit in question must be a limit for continuous variation, not for a restricted domain.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 11, Slice 3 "Frost" to "Fyzabad" by Various

This continuous variation was supposed to account for the origin of new species when it became excessive.

From Essays In Pastoral Medicine by ?Malley, Austin