How Do You Spell MONOMORPHIC?

Pronunciation: [mˌɒnə͡ʊmˈɔːfɪk] (IPA)

The word "monomorphic" is spelled mɒnə'mɔːfɪk. It is derived from the Greek words "mono" meaning "single" and "morph" meaning "form". In biology, the term is used to describe a species or population that has a single form or shape. The word is often used in genetics to describe a trait that has only one form or allele. The phonetic transcription shows the pronunciation, including the stress on the second syllable and the long "o" sound in the first syllable.

MONOMORPHIC Meaning and Definition

1. Monomorphic is an adjective that describes an organism or a population that exhibits only one distinct form or morphology. It refers to a state or condition in which all individuals within a group share the same or very similar physical characteristics, lacking significant variations in appearance.

   In biology, monomorphism can be observed in various contexts. For instance, it can describe a species that lacks sexual dimorphism, meaning that there are no obvious physical differences between males and females. In such cases, both sexes appear nearly identical in terms of size, coloration, patterns, or other external features.

   Monomorphism can also be used to describe a population where individuals display little genetic variability, having a limited range of genetic variations. This can occur, for example, in small or isolated populations that have undergone inbreeding or where there has been a genetic bottleneck, resulting in reduced genetic diversity.

   Additionally, monomorphism can be employed in mathematics or computer science to describe a situation where a single form or structure is predominant or exists exclusively within a given set of elements or objects.

   Overall, the term monomorphic indicates a lack of significant variation or diversity, emphasizing the uniformity or similarity of individuals or forms within a particular context.

2. Of one shape; unchangeable in shape.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for MONOMORPHIC

• monomophic
• monomorphus
• Monamorhphic

Etymology of MONOMORPHIC

The word "monomorphic" originated from two roots: "mono" and "morphic".

- The root "mono" comes from the Greek word "monos", meaning "alone" or "single". It is commonly used as a prefix to indicate singularity or uniformity.

- The root "morphic" is derived from the Greek word "morphe", meaning "form" or "shape". It is often used as a suffix to denote various forms or shapes.

Combining these roots, "monomorphic" represents the concept of having a single form or shape. In specific contexts, the term is frequently used in biology and genetics to describe a population consisting of individuals that have the same or very similar forms or shapes.