ACQUIRED CHARACTER Meaning and
Definition
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Acquired character is a term used in the field of biology, specifically in the study of evolution and genetics. It refers to a characteristic or trait that an organism develops or acquires during its lifetime as a result of environmental influences or behaviors, rather than being inherited genetically.
In contrast to inherited or genetic characteristics, which are determined by the DNA of an organism and can be passed down to future generations, acquired characters are not heritable. They are acquired by an individual organism through its own experiences, learning, or exposure to external factors during its lifetime.
These acquired traits can be influenced by various environmental factors, such as nutrition, physical exercise, and exposure to certain substances. For example, a person who consistently lifts weights and exercises can acquire a greater muscle mass and strength compared to someone who leads a sedentary lifestyle.
The concept of acquired characters was popularized by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, a French biologist, in the early 19th century. However, it was later rejected as an explanation for the diversity of species by the theory of natural selection proposed by Charles Darwin. According to Darwin, evolution occurs through the inheritance of favorable genetic variations, rather than through the acquisition of traits during an individual's lifetime. Nonetheless, the concept of acquired characters remains relevant in the study of gene-environment interactions and the effects of environmental factors on an organism's phenotype.
Common Misspellings for ACQUIRED CHARACTER
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Etymology of ACQUIRED CHARACTER
The term "acquired character" refers to a concept in biology that suggests the traits and characteristics of an organism can be modified or acquired during its lifetime through mutual interactions with the environment. This idea originated from the theory of Lamarckism, which was proposed by the French biologist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in the late 18th century.
The etymology of the term can be broken down as follows:
1. Acquired: The word "acquired" comes from the Middle English word "acqueren", which in turn derives from the Old French word "acquerre", meaning "to attain, gain, or procure". It has roots in the Latin word "acquirere", which translates to "to get in addition" or "to add to one's possessions".
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