neotenic

/niːəˈtɛnɪk/

Definitions

1. adjective

Relating to or characteristic of the retention of juvenile features into adulthood.

“The neotenic features of the species’ appearance are thought to be an adaptation for attracting prey.”

2. noun

An organism that retains juvenile features into adulthood.

“The neotenic species has become a topic of interest in the field of evolutionary biology.”

Synonyms

  • immature
  • juvenile

Antonyms

  • adult
  • mature