metagenesis

[ met-uh-jen-uh-sis ]

noun

, Biology.

1. reproduction characterized by the alternation of a sexual generation and a generation that reproduces asexually; alternation of generations.

metagenesis

/ ˌmɛtədʒɪˈnɛtɪk; ˌmɛtəˈdʒɛnɪsɪs /

noun

1. another name for alternation of generations

Derived Forms

• ˌmetageˈnetically, adverb
• metagenetic, adjective

Other Words From

• met·a·ge·net·ic [met-, uh, -j, uh, -, net, -ik], meta·genic adjective
• meta·ge·neti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of metagenesis¹

First recorded in 1885–90; meta- + genesis

Example Sentences

Each part may be moulded within a previously existing and corresponding part, and in this case it will appear, falsely as I believe, to be formed from the old part; or it may be developed within a wholly distinct part of the body, as in the extreme cases of metagenesis.

From Project Gutenberg

In ordinary metamorphoses, the parts and organs appear to become changed into the corresponding parts in the next stage of development; but there is another form of development, which has been called by Professor Owen metagenesis.

From Project Gutenberg

Metamorphosis, however, graduates so insensibly into metagenesis, that the two processes cannot be distinctly separated.

From Project Gutenberg

Hence, metagenesis involves the production of sexual individuals by nonsexual means, either directly or through intervening sexless generations.

From Project Gutenberg

Each newly formed part may be moulded within a previously existing and corresponding part, and in this case it will appear, falsely as I believe, to be developed from the old part; or it may be formed within a distinct part of the body, as in the extreme cases of metagenesis.

From Project Gutenberg