Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

heredity

noun
/həˈrɛd.ɪ.ti/
Definition
The passing of traits from parents to their offspring.
Examples
  • Heredity plays a significant role in determining physical traits such as eye color.
  • Studies in heredity have helped scientists understand genetic disorders.
  • Many characteristics, like height and intelligence, can be influenced by heredity.
Meaning
Heredity refers to how genetic qualities and characteristics are handed down from one generation to the next.
Synonyms
  • inheritance
  • genetics
  • lineage
  • ancestry