Genetic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Science

• DNA, the molecule that carries genetic information, is often compared to a computer code that tells the body how to function.
• Genetic mutations can lead to variations in species, providing material for evolution, as seen in Darwin's theory of natural selection.

Pop Culture

• Genetic science features prominently in movies and books, such as 'Jurassic Park,' which explores cloning through genetic engineering.
• The rise of personalized medicine showcases how genetic information is used to tailor treatments for individual patients.

Psychology

• Studies suggest that genetics can influence behavioral traits, like predispositions to anxiety or happiness, but environment also plays a crucial role.
• The 'nature vs. nurture' debate examines how much of our behavior is determined by genetics versus upbringing.

Ethics

• Advancements in genetic editing technologies, like CRISPR, raise ethical questions about modifying human DNA and its implications.
• The potential for genetic engineering in humans has spurred conversations about designer babies and the moral ramifications involved.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Greek word 'genesis,' meaning origin or creation, reflecting how genes determine traits.
• It was first used in the 19th century to describe inheritance and hereditary traits in living organisms.

The word 'genetic' originates from the Greek word 'genetikos', meaning 'relative to birth or origin'. It was first used in the early 20th century in the field of biology to describe the study of heredity and variation in organisms. The discovery of DNA and the mapping of the human genome have since revolutionized genetic research, leading to advancements in medicine, agriculture, and evolutionary biology.

See also: genealogy, genes, genesis.

Ranking #3,517, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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