Surrogate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จโ๐ฆ
surrogate
[หsสrษษกษt ]
Definitions
in technology
A surrogate is a substitute or replacement for something else. In technology, a surrogate can refer to a placeholder object that represents another object. It is commonly used in programming and database management.
Synonyms
proxy, replacement, stand-in, substitute.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| surrogate |
The word 'surrogate' was already defined above.
|
| substitute |
Used broadly when someone or something takes the place of another, often temporary or in less formal settings.
|
| replacement |
Used when referring to something or someone taking the place of another, often implying a direct swap.
|
| stand-in |
Used when someone temporarily takes over another person's role, often in acting or performance contexts.
|
| proxy |
Typically used when someone is authorized to act on behalf of another, often in formal or legal settings.
|
Examples of usage
- Developers use surrogates to optimize the performance of their applications.
- The surrogate key in a database table helps uniquely identify each record.
in genetics
In genetics, a surrogate can refer to a mother that carries a child on behalf of another person or couple. This process is known as surrogacy and involves the implantation of an embryo into the surrogate mother.
Synonyms
gestational carrier, stand-in, substitute, surrogate mother.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| surrogate |
Usually refers to a person who is acting on behalf of another in various contexts. Often used in legal or formal situations.
|
| substitute |
A general term that can be used in various contexts to describe someone or something that takes the place of another. Can be used in educational, professional, or everyday settings.
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| stand-in |
Commonly used in more casual or entertainment contexts to describe someone temporarily taking the place of another person, often in a performance setting.
|
| surrogate mother |
Specifically used to describe a woman who carries a pregnancy for another person or couple. Could refer to both scenarios where the surrogate mother is genetically related to the child or not.
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| gestational carrier |
Specifically used in medical contexts to refer to a woman who carries a pregnancy for another person or couple. The baby is not genetically related to the gestational carrier.
|
Examples of usage
- The couple opted for surrogacy to fulfill their dream of having a child.
- The surrogate mother provided a nurturing environment for the developing fetus.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Medical Context
- Surrogacy allows individuals or couples who cannot conceive to have a biological child.
- There are two main types of surrogacy: traditional (where the surrogate is the biological mother) and gestational (where the egg is from another woman).
- The first known gestational surrogacy was successfully completed in the 1980s, revolutionizing reproductive options.
Cultural Perspectives
- Many cultures throughout history have had practices similar to modern surrogacy, often involving family members helping one another.
- Surrogacy can boost the social status of a woman in some communities, particularly if she bears children for others.
- In certain societies, surrogates are celebrated for their role in continuing family lines.
Legal Aspects
- Surrogacy laws vary significantly around the world, with some countries banning it outright.
- In some places, contracts between intended parents and surrogates are legally enforceable, while in others they are not.
- Issues surrounding parental rights are common in surrogacy cases, often needing substantial legal clarification.
Ethical Considerations
- Surrogacy raises questions about the treatment of surrogates, especially regarding compensation and autonomy.
- Critics argue that surrogacy can commodify human life, while supporters see it as a compassionate option for creating families.
- Discussions often revolve around how to protect all parties involved, including the surrogate, the intended parents, and the child.
Origin of 'surrogate'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'surrogatus', meaning 'substitute'.
- It was first used in English in the 15th century, referring to someone appointed to act for another.
- The term originally described someone acting on behalf of another in legal matters.
The word 'surrogate' originates from the Latin word 'surrogatus', which means 'substituted'. It first appeared in English in the mid-17th century. The concept of surrogacy has evolved over time, with technological advancements allowing for new methods of assisted reproduction. Surrogacy has become a complex legal and ethical issue in many countries, raising questions about parental rights, genetic relationships, and the commercialization of reproduction.