pangenesis

[ pan-jen-uh-sis ]

noun

, Biology.

1. the theory that a reproductive cell contains gemmules or invisible germs that were derived from the individual cells from every part of the organism and that these gemmules are the bearers of hereditary attributes.

pangenesis

/ pænˈdʒɛnɪsɪs; ˌpændʒəˈnɛtɪk /

noun

1. See blastogenesis
   a former theory of heredity, that each body cell produces hereditary particles that circulate in the blood before collecting in the reproductive cells See also blastogenesis

Derived Forms

• pangenetic, adjective
• ˌpangeˈnetically, adverb

Other Words From

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of pangenesis¹

1868; pan- + genesis; term introduced by Charles Darwin

Example Sentences

Pangenesis, pan-jen′e-sis, n. the theory that every separate part of the whole organisation reproduces itself.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Darwin appears, by "Natural Selection," to destroy the reality of species, and by Pangenesis that of the individual.

From Project Gutenberg

As was said at the beginning of this chapter, "Pangenesis" and "Natural Selection" are quite separable and distinct hypotheses.

From Project Gutenberg

You will find pangenesis stiff reading, and I fear will shake your head in disapproval.

From Project Gutenberg

Your explanation agrees beautifully with the hypothesis of pangenesis, and delights me.

From Project Gutenberg