Genetics
/dʒəˈnɛtɪks/noun
The branch of biology that deals with heredity and variation in organisms.
Did you know?The term 'genetics' is derived from the Greek word 'genesis', meaning 'origin' or 'birth', connecting it to the very essence of life itself.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
γένεσις (génesis)
“origin or birth, often referring to creation or the beginning of life.”
19th Century
English
genetics
“Coined as a scientific term to describe the study of heredity and variation.”
20th Century
English
genetics
“Formalized as a key discipline in biology, revealing the mechanisms of inheritance.”
20th Century
English
genetics
“Became pivotal in understanding evolution and the molecular basis of life.”