Eugenic: meaning, definitions and examples

The term 'eugenic' derives from the Greek word 'eugenēs', meaning 'well-born' or 'noble descent'. It was first introduced in the late 19th century by Sir Francis Galton, a British polymath, who proposed using selective breeding to improve human intellect and character. Galton's ideas were rooted in the prevailing theories of heredity and human variation. Eugenics gained traction in the early 20th century, leading to various social and political movements, particularly in Europe and North America. However, eugenic practices became highly controversial, as they often involved unethical human experimentation and systemic racism, culminating in atrocities during the Holocaust. In modern times, eugenics is largely denounced and viewed with skepticism, prompting discussions about ethics in genetic research and technology.

At rank #28,444, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 28441 dialectal
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• 28444 eugenic
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