neo-Lamarckism

noun

¦nē(ˌ)ō+
variants or Neo-Lamarckism
: a modern theory of evolution based on Lamarckism and retaining the fundamental concept that acquired characters are inherited: such as
a
: the theory that evolution results from the action of natural selection upon acquired characters
b
: the theory that evolutionary change is the direct product of the interaction of organism and environment compare neo-darwinism

Word History

Etymology

ne- + lamarckism

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near neo-Lamarckism

Cite this Entry

“Neo-Lamarckism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neo-Lamarckism. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!