Asexually: meaning, definitions and examples

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asexually

 

[ eɪˈsɛkʃuəli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

biological reproduction

Asexually refers to a method of reproduction that does not involve the fusion of gametes or sexual intercourse. Organisms that reproduce asexually can create offspring that are genetically identical to the parent, often through processes like budding, binary fission, or vegetative propagation. This method is common in many plants, fungi, and some animal species, allowing them to reproduce rapidly and effectively in suitable environments.

Synonyms

clonally, non-sexually

Examples of usage

  • The planarian can reproduce asexually by regenerating its body.
  • Some plants can propagate asexually through root cuttings.
  • Bacteria often reproduce asexually through a process called binary fission.

Translations

Translations of the word "asexually" in other languages:

🇵🇹 assexualmente

🇮🇳 असमान्य रूप से

🇩🇪 asexuell

🇮🇩 aseksual

🇺🇦 асексуально

🇵🇱 aseksualnie

🇯🇵 無性で

🇫🇷 asexuellement

🇪🇸 asexualmente

🇹🇷 aseksüel olarak

🇰🇷 무성적으로

🇸🇦 غير جنسيًا

🇨🇿 asexuálně

🇸🇰 asexuálne

🇨🇳 无性地

🇸🇮 asexuelno

🇮🇸 asekúlslega

🇰🇿 асексуалдық түрде

🇬🇪 ასექსუალურად

🇦🇿 aseksual şəkildə

🇲🇽 asexualmente

Word origin

The term 'asexually' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'a-' meaning 'without' and the word 'sexual', which stems from the Latin root 'sexus', meaning 'sex' or 'gender'. The use of 'asexually' can be traced back to the early biological sciences in the 19th century, as researchers began to differentiate between sexual and asexual reproduction. As the study of genetics progressed, especially with the advent of Darwinian evolution, the understanding and terminology surrounding asexual reproduction grew more refined. This allowed the term to become widely accepted in biological contexts, highlighting the significance of asexual reproduction in the life cycles of various organisms, particularly in environments where sexual reproduction may be less advantageous.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,501 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.