epigenetics

American  

[ep-i-juh-net-iks] / ˌɛp ɪ dʒəˈnɛt ɪks /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. Genetics. the study of the process by which genetic information is translated into the substance and behavior of an organism: specifically, the study of the way in which the expression of heritable traits is modified by environmental influences or other mechanisms without a change to the DNA sequence.

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epigenetics British  

/ ˌɛpɪdʒɪˈnɛtɪks /

noun

1. the study of heritable changes that occur without a change in the DNA sequence

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epigenetics Scientific  

/ ĕp′ĭ-jə-nĕt′ĭks /

1. The study of heritable changes in gene expression caused by factors such as DNA methylation rather than by a change in the sequence of base pairs in DNA itself.

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Etymology

Origin of epigenetics

Coined in 1942 by English biologist Conrad H. Waddington (1905–75); blend of epigenesis and genetics

Example Sentences

In short, epigenetics is, at most, Lamarckism lite.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

There is also a developing field of research into epigenetics, which asks whether the experience of trauma by one generation can show up in later generations through changes in the way our genes behave.

From BBC • Dec. 29, 2025

A person’s lifestyle, diet, and environment, he notes, can exert considerable influence on epigenetics, making it difficult to determine what constitutes a “normal” amount of biological aging.

From Science Magazine • Mar. 22, 2024

As the scientific community delves deeper into the world of epigenetics, this study represents a major step towards unravelling the complexities of replication-coupled histone recycling.

From Science Daily • Mar. 7, 2024

I write in my book, “Confessions of a Funeral Director,” that behavioral epigenetics have found that our experiences can be passed down on a molecular level.

From Salon • Oct. 29, 2017