phenetics

[ fi-net-iks ]

noun

, (used with a singular verb)

1. classification of organisms based on measurable similarities and differences rather than genetic makeup and evolutionary descent.

phenetics

/ fɪˈnɛtɪks /

noun

1. functioning as singular biology a system of classification based on similarities between organisms without regard to their evolutionary relationships

Grammar Note

See -ics.

Derived Forms

• pheˈnetic, adjective

Other Words From

• phe·net·i·cist [fi-, net, -, uh, -sist], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of phenetics¹

phenetic, -ics

Word History and Origins

Origin of phenetics¹

C20: from phen ( otype ) + ( gen ) etics