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Heritable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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heritable

[หˆhษ›rษชtษ™bl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

genetics, inheritance

Heritable refers to the genetic characteristics that can be passed from parents to their offspring. These traits are governed by genes, which may influence various aspects of an individual's phenotype such as height, eye color, and susceptibility to certain diseases. In broader terms, heritable can also refer to qualities or conditions that can be transmitted in contexts beyond biology, such as behavioral traits. Understanding heritable factors is crucial in fields like genetics and medicine for predicting health risks and understanding family disease patterns.

Synonyms

genetic, inherited, transmissible.

Examples of usage

  • Many traits are heritable and can be observed in family lineages.
  • Scientists study heritable diseases to identify genetic markers.
  • Heritable characteristics can be manipulated through selective breeding.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Genetics

  • Many traits, such as eye color and height, are heritable based on specific genes passed from parents to offspring.
  • Heritability is measured as a percentage, indicating the degree to which variation in a trait can be attributed to genetic factors.
  • Complex traits, like intelligence or behavior, are influenced by multiple genes and the environment, not just single factors.

Law and Economics

  • In legal terms, heritable assets may include real estate, stocks, and intellectual property.
  • Traditionally, heritable properties were divided among heirs according to laws of succession, which vary by culture.
  • Estate planning often involves specifying heritable assets to ensure they pass to intended beneficiaries.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, heritability is significant for preserving family lineage and social status.
  • Some societies emphasize the importance of heritable traits, such as honor or skills, passed through generations.
  • Heritage often influences personal identity, leading individuals to feel connected to their family's history and accomplishments.

Public Health

  • Heritable diseases, like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia, can be passed down, necessitating genetic counseling.
  • Understanding heritability can help in predicting health risks and developing personalized medicine.
  • Various traits, both physical and psychological, can be inherited, highlighting the complexity of genetics in health.

Origin of 'heritable'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'hereditarius', meaning 'heir' or 'inherited'.
  • The root 'hereditate' indicates the act of receiving something as an heir.
  • The term began to be used in English around the 15th century, connecting to the legal traditions of inheritance.

The term 'heritable' derives from the Middle English word 'heritable', rooted in the Old French 'hรฉritabl', which itself comes from the Late Latin 'hereditabilis'. This Latin term is associated with 'hereditas', meaning 'inheritance', which relates to the idea of passing down traits or rights from ancestors to descendants. The concept of heritability has been central to discussions in law, culture, and science, especially in genetics, where it denotes the proportion of variation among individuals in a trait due to genetic factors. Over time, 'heritable' has evolved to encompass both understood and misunderstood aspects of inheritance, delving into both genetic predisposition and cultural transmission across generations.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,565, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.