Phenotype
/ˈfiːnəˌtaɪp/noun
The observable physical characteristics of an organism, as determined by genetics and environment.
Did you know?Phenotype was coined in the early 20th century from Greek roots meaning “to show” and “form,” so in a very real sense it names what is *manifested* outward from hidden inheritance.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
phaínein
“to bring to light, show, make appear”
Ancient Greek
Greek
phainómenon
“that which appears; an appearance, phenomenon”
Ancient Greek
Greek
týpos
“a blow, mark, impression, form”
1900
German
Phänotypus
“a term coined for the observable characteristics of an organism”
Early 20th Century
English
phenotype
“the observable characteristics of an organism”
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