Prepotency is a tricky word to spell because of its unique structure. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /priːpoʊtənsi/. The first syllable starts with the sound /priː/ which is like the word "tree." The second syllable contains the sound /poʊ/ which is like the word "go." The last syllable has the sound /tənsi/ which is like "ten-see." A possible way to remember the spelling of prepotency is to break the word into smaller parts based on the sounds of each syllable.
Prepotency is a term that refers to the dominant or superior trait of an individual or organism in the transmission of characteristics or traits to its offspring. It is primarily used in genetics and breeding to describe the ability of one parent to consistently pass on its desirable traits to its progeny, thereby exerting a strong genetic influence on future generations.
The concept of prepotency arises from the understanding that certain individuals possess a greater degree of genetic influence over their offspring compared to others. These individuals are said to be prepotent because they have a higher probability of consistently transmitting their desired traits to their offspring, regardless of the characteristics or traits of the other parent involved in reproduction.
Prepotency is often considered a desirable attribute in selective breeding and genetic improvement programs, as it helps to ensure the preservation and enhancement of desired traits in subsequent generations. Breeders aim to identify and select prepotent individuals with superior traits to maximize the likelihood of passing on these traits to future generations. By consistently breeding from prepotent individuals, breeders aim to establish and maintain a genetic line that possesses the desired traits in a consistent and predictable manner.
The ability or power possessed by one parent in greater degree than the other, of transmitting hereditable characteristics to the offspring.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "prepotency" is derived from the Latin term "praepotentia", which is a combination of two words: "prae" meaning "before" or "superior" and "potentia" meaning "power" or "ability". Thus, the term "prepotency" conveys the notion of something having superior or dominant power or influence.