melanic

[ muh-lan-ik ]

adjective

1. Pathology. melanotic.
2. of or relating to melanism.

melanic

/ məˈlænɪk /

adjective

1. relating to melanism or melanosis

Word History and Origins

Origin of melanic¹

First recorded in 1815–25; melan- + -ic

Example Sentences

It suggested that 'melanic', or dark-coloured, plumage or coats could be a selective advantage for animals living in polluted areas because the animals can rid themselves of harmful chemicals faster.

From Nature

Although it is possible that melanic mutants existed undetected at a very low level in the peppered-moth population for centuries, the specific mutation behind their coloration is relatively recent, appearing around 1819 — in plenty of time for it to be noted down in Manchester a couple of decades later.

From Nature

Among the holes in the story was the identity of the gene that was involved in producing the dark-coloured — melanic — moth variant.

From Nature

According to Professor Tower slight increase or decrease in these environmental factors stimulated the activity of the color producing ferments, giving rise to melanic or darker individuals.

From Project Gutenberg

For example, hazel eyes are sometimes called gray; they belong however to the melanic pigmented type although the brown pigment may be much diluted and occur mainly around the pupil.

From Project Gutenberg