Meaning & Definition of word "Phylogeny"

Phylogeny

/faɪˈlɒdʒəni/

noun:

  • 1. The evolutionary history and relationships among a group of organisms.
    • Example: The phylogeny of birds can be traced back to theropod dinosaurs.
  • 2. A diagram that represents the evolutionary relationships among species or groups, known as a phylogenetic tree.
    • Example: The phylogeny of the primate family is illustrated in this comprehensive phylogenetic tree.
  • 3. The study of the evolutionary development and diversification of a particular group of organisms.
    • Example: Research in phylogeny helps scientists understand the emergence of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
  • 4. The sequence of events involved in the evolutionary development of a species or a group of species.
    • Example: By analyzing genetic data, researchers can reconstruct the phylogeny of ancient mammals.

Etymology

From the Greek 'phylo-', meaning 'race' or 'tribe', and 'geny', meaning 'origin' or 'birth'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

phylogenetic tree:

A branching diagram showing the relationships among various biological species.

molecular phylogeny:

Using molecular data to determine the evolutionary relationships among species.

Related Words

taxonomy:

The science of classification of organisms.

cladistics:

A method of classifying species based on common ancestry.

evolution:

The process through which species change over time.

Slang Meanings of phylogeny

Meaning: Phylo

Example Sentence: In the lab, we often refer to phylogenetic trees simply as 'phylo' diagrams.

Meaning: Tree of life

Example Sentence: When discussing species diversity, we might call it the 'tree of life'.