ScienceAugust 27, 2026

ontogenetic

on-tuh-JEN-ik

Definition

Relating to the development of an individual organism, from the initial fertilized egg through the various stages of maturation.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'ontos' (being or individual) and 'genesis' (origin or development). It entered scientific English in the late 19th century to describe the life cycle of individual organisms.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe biological information sources, contrasting the development of a specific organism with other evolutionary factors.

Fighting a Battle That’s Over, and ID Won

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