Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

homologous

Adjective

həˈmɒl.ə.ɡəs

Definition

Referring to structures or sequences that are similar due to shared ancestry, often used in biology and genetics.

Examples

Homologous chromosomes pair up during meiosis.
The forelimbs of humans and whales are homologous structures.
In evolutionary biology, homologous traits are important for understanding species relationships.

Meaning

Homologous indicates a similarity that arises from common evolutionary origin, often used in the context of genes, chromosomes, or anatomical structures that are derived from a common ancestor.