sexual reproduction

[ sek-shoo-uhl ree-pruh-duhk-shuhn ]

noun

, Biology.

1. reproduction involving the union of gametes.

sexual reproduction

noun

1. reproduction involving the fusion of a male and female haploid gamete

sexual reproduction

1. See under reproduction

sexual reproduction

1. The production of a new living thing by two parent organisms, with each parent contributing half the material in the DNA of the offspring. The young, genetically different from either parent, can rapidly adapt to their environment by means of natural selection . ( See chromosomes and meiosis .)

Word History and Origins

Origin of sexual reproduction¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

In sexual reproduction, an egg and a sperm combine to make a new individual.

From Science News For Students

The clearest evidences as to the stages in the evolution of sexual reproduction is found in the plant world among the green algæ.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus I have endeavored to sum up the processes of asexual and of sexual reproduction.

From Project Gutenberg

All simple forms of sexual reproduction without alternation of generations are comprised under the title of hypogenesis.

From Project Gutenberg

Variation is thus due to the action or stimulus of external influences, supplemented by sexual reproduction.

From Project Gutenberg

The actual mechanism of sexual reproduction is essentially the same wherever it occurs, whether in a seaweed or a human being.

From Project Gutenberg