Definition

noun

(1) The study of the patterns of inheritance of specific traits, relating to genes and genetic information

(2) Heredity

Supplement

Genetics include biological studies in heredity, particularly the mechanisms of hereditary transmission and the variation of inherited characteristics among similar or related organisms. The different branches of genetics include:

The person specializing in genetics is referred to as geneticist. The father of genetics is Gregor Mendel who is an Augustinian friar in 19th century. His work that paved the way to genetics is his study of trait inheritance. He was able to decipher the patterns in which the traits were passed down from patents to offspring on pea plants.

Word origin: Ancient Greek gnesis (origin)

See also:

Related term(s):

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