How Do You Spell ONTOGENY?

Pronunciation: [ɒntˈɒd͡ʒəni] (IPA)

Ontogeny is a biological term that refers to the development of an organism from its earliest stages to its mature form. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA): ɑntɑdʒəni. The first syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound "a" as in "father," followed by the consonant blend "nt." The second syllable starts with the consonant sound "j" as in "jump," followed by the vowel sound "ə" as in the second syllable of "sofa," and ends with the consonant sound "n." The final syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound "i" as in "bite."

ONTOGENY Meaning and Definition

  1. Ontogeny refers to the biological development and growth of an individual organism from its earliest stage of existence, such as fertilization, through the different stages of growth, maturation, and ultimately its death. It encompasses the complex processes of cellular differentiation, tissue formation, and organ development that occur during an organism's lifetime.

    The term "ontogeny" is derived from the Greek words "ontos" meaning "being" or "creature" and "genesis" meaning "birth" or "origin." It is often used interchangeably with the term "development" in the context of biology.

    Ontogeny is crucial in understanding the overall evolutionary and adaptive processes that shape the characteristics and behaviors of organisms. It provides insights into how genetic factors, environmental influences, and interaction between the two contribute to an organism's growth and the specific traits it develops over time.

    The study of ontogeny is significant in fields like embryology, developmental biology, and evolutionary biology. Scientists employ various methods, including observations, experiments, and genetic analysis, to investigate and comprehend the mechanisms and patterns underlying ontogenetic processes.

    Overall, the concept of ontogeny is essential as it helps researchers understand the intricate developmental pathways that lead to the formation of an organism's form and function, and how these processes are influenced by genetics and the environment.

  2. Ontogenesis.

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

Common Misspellings for ONTOGENY

Etymology of ONTOGENY

The word "ontogeny" comes from the Greek roots "ontos", meaning "being" or "that which is", and "genesis", meaning "origin" or "birth". Combining these roots, "ontogeny" refers to the development or origin of an individual organism from conception to maturity, encompassing all stages of growth and differentiation.

Similar spelling words for ONTOGENY

Plural form of ONTOGENY is ONTOGENIES

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