Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

metamer

noun

/ˈmɛtəmər/

Definition

A metamer is a term used in biology and optics to describe a substance or organism that appears similar to another due to the arrangement of its components, even if they differ in structure or function.

Examples

The earthworm is made up of many metameric segments that each contain muscles and nerves.
In physics, different colored lights can appear identical to the human eye; this phenomenon is known as metamerism.

Meaning

In biology, it refers to segments of an organism that are similar in structure but may perform different functions. In optics, it refers to different light wavelengths that stimulate the same color perception.