teratogenesis

[ tuh-rat-uh-jen-uh-sis, ter-uh-tuh- ]

noun

, Biology.

1. the production or induction of malformations or monstrosities, especially of a developing embryo or fetus.

Other Words From

• te·rat·o·ge·net·ic [t, uh, -rat-oh-j, uh, -, net, -ik, ter-, uh, -toh-], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of teratogenesis¹

First recorded in 1900–05; terato- + -genesis

Example Sentences

Such abnormalities arise as a result of a process known as teratogenesis.

From Washington Post