Lamarckism

[lә'mɑ:kizәm]

Definition

(noun.) a theory of organic evolution claiming that acquired characteristics are transmitted to offspring.

Edited by Jason--From WordNet

Definition

(n.) The theory that structural variations, characteristic of species and genera, are produced in animals and plants by the direct influence of physical environments, and esp., in the case of animals, by effort, or by use or disuse of certain organs.

Typist: Tim

Definition

n. the theory of the French naturalist J. B. P. A. de Monet de Lamarck (1744-1829) that species have developed by the efforts of organisms to adapt themselves to new conditions—also Lamarck′ianism.—-adj. Lamarck′ian.

Editor: Sasha