Weismannism

[ vahys-mahn-iz-uhm ]

noun

, Biology.

1. the theories of heredity as expounded by Weismann, especially the theory that all inheritable characteristics are carried in the germ plasm, and that acquired characteristics cannot be inherited.

Weismannism

/ ˈvaɪsmənˌɪzəm /

noun

1. the doctrine of the continuity of the germ plasm. This theory of heredity states that all inheritable characteristics are transmitted by the reproductive cells and that characteristics acquired during the lifetime of the organism are not inherited

Other Words From

• Weismann·i·an adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of Weismannism¹

First recorded in 1890–95; Weismann + -ism

Word History and Origins

Origin of Weismannism¹

C19: named after August Weismann (1834–1914), German biologist

Example Sentences

Bearing of Weismannism on Physiological Selection.—If in view of other considerations I could fully accept Professor Weismann's theory of heredity, it would appear to me in no small measure to strengthen my own theory of physiological selection.

From Project Gutenberg

But although this seems to me sufficiently obvious, as I have shown at greater length in the Examination of Weismannism, it must not be understood that I hold that there is room for any large amount of such overlapping.

From Project Gutenberg

Unless Weismannism be regarded as this doctrine of absolutism it permits no basis for his attempted theory of evolution.

From Project Gutenberg

But having already attempted to show fully in my Examination this great distinction between the scientific importance of the question which lies at the base of "Weismannism," and that of the system which he has constructed on his assumed answer thereto, I need not now say anything further with regard to it.

From Project Gutenberg

Now, as just explained, the parts of this system which may be properly and distinctively called "Weismannism" are those which go to form the Y-like structure of deductions from the fundamental postulate.

From Project Gutenberg