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Ontogenetic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Ontogenetic refers to the development or growth of an individual organism from embryo to adult. It describes changes in structure, function, and behavior during an organism's lifespan.

ontogenetic

/ˌɑntoʊdʒəˈnɛtɪk/ /ˌɒntəʊdʒɪˈnɛtɪk/

Definition:

Relating to the development of an individual organism from embryo to adult.

Synonyms:

developmental, maturational, growth-related

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

nondevelopmental, static

Common Collocations:

ontogenetic stages, ontogenetic changes, ontogenetic processes

Derivatives:

ontogenetically, ontogeny

Usage Tips:

Use "ontogenetic" to describe biological or psychological changes during an organism's lifespan.

Common Phrases:

ontogenetic development, ontogenetic trajectory, ontogenetic sequence

Etymology:

From Greek "onto-" (being) + "-genetic" (origin), meaning the origin and development of an organism.

Examples:

  • 1. The study focuses on the ontogenetic changes in butterfly wing patterns.
  • 2. Ontogenetic processes explain how a tadpole becomes a frog.
  • 3. Researchers observed ontogenetic differences in brain structure across species.
  • 4. Her thesis explores the ontogenetic stages of language acquisition.

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