HEREDITARY Meaning and
Definition
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Hereditary is an adjective that refers to traits, characteristics, conditions, or diseases that are passed down from parents to their offspring through genetic inheritance. It relates to the concept of heredity, which is the transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next.
In the context of genetics, hereditary traits are determined by genes and DNA, the building blocks of life. These genes are located on chromosomes and are responsible for various characteristics, such as physical appearance, behavior, and susceptibility to certain illnesses. The transmission of these genes occurs through either sexual reproduction, where genetic material from both parents combines to create a unique mix in the offspring, or asexual reproduction, where genetic information is copied and passed on entirely.
Hereditary conditions can be either dominant or recessive. Dominant traits or disorders only require one copy of the gene to be present for the trait or condition to be expressed. In contrast, recessive traits or disorders require both copies of the gene to be present for the trait or condition to manifest.
Understanding hereditary factors is crucial in fields such as genetics, medicine, and evolutionary biology. Studying hereditary traits and diseases allows researchers to better comprehend the genetic basis of various conditions, aiding in diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, it helps elucidate the dynamic process of inheritance and evolution, shedding light on the fascinating intricacies of life itself.
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Transmitted from parent to offspring.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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That has descended from an ancestor; that may be transmitted from parent to offspring.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of HEREDITARY
The word "hereditary" comes from the Latin word "hereditarius", which is derived from "hereditas", meaning "inheritance" or "heredity". In turn, "hereditas" is derived from "heres", meaning "heir" or "successor". The notion of passing down attributes or characteristics from one generation to the next gave rise to the modern meaning of "hereditary", which refers to traits or conditions that are passed on through genetic inheritance.
Similar spelling words for HEREDITARY
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