polygeny

/pɑːliːˈdʒɛni/

Definitions

1. noun

the theory that the human species consists of multiple distinct species or subspecies, rather than a single species.

“The idea of polygeny was widely discussed in anthropology during the 19th century.”

2. noun

the state of having multiple parents, often referring to the phenomenon of having multiple biological fathers.

“The study of polygeny in plants has led to a greater understanding of their reproductive mechanisms.”

3. noun

a polygenic trait or characteristic, meaning a trait that is influenced by multiple genes.

“Researchers have identified several polygenic traits that contribute to an individual’s susceptibility to certain diseases.”

Synonyms

  • heteropaternal superfecundation
  • multiple ancestry
  • polyspermy

Antonyms

  • monogeny
  • monoparentalism