Genetics

Origin

Ancient Greek γένεσις (genesis, "origin"). Ultimately from γίγνομαι (gignomai, "I come into being").

Full definition of genetics

Noun

1. (biology, genetics) The branch of biology that deals with the transmission and variation of inherited characteristics, in particular chromosomes and DNA.
2. (biology, genetics) The genetic makeup of a specific individual or species.
• 2005, Mark Linden O’Meara, The Feeling Soul: A Roadmap to Healing and Living, Soul Care Publishing, ISBN 978-0-9680459-2-3, page 45:As a result of your father’s, mother’s, and their parents genetics, you are born with a genetic structure that is dealt to you at conception. ... Our ancestry determines our genetics.
• 2006, Jay Irvin, Fire Your Doctor!: How and When to be Your Own Best Medical Advisor, This amazing occurrence made my head go bong to say the least; it was obvious that Elizabeth had not been “schizophrenic” because of her genetics, nor because of stress, nor malnutrition, nor hypoglycemia, nor because of any of the causes of mental illness that I had learned and rectify, but because of food allergies
• 2010, Mike Furches, The Keystone Kids, Anthony knew he could excel in boxing because of his genetics. He fought 168 pounds and fought in fights around the Tri-Cities.

Synonyms

• (genetic makeup) genes

Derived terms

• evolutionary genetics
• optogenetics
• population genetics
• quantitative genetics