noun
cline
klyn
Cline (noun) means a gradual change in a trait across a range of related populations or forms. Example: “Scientists mapped a cline in wing colour across the butterfly's range.”
noun
1
A gradual change in a trait across a range of related populations or forms.
"Scientists mapped a cline in wing colour across the butterfly's range."
2
Any smooth, continuous scale or gradient between two extremes.
"Linguists describe formality as a cline rather than a fixed category."
How to use cline
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA gradual, sliding-scale change from one form or trait to another, rather than a sharp jump.
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Word forms
- Plural
- clines
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Scientists mapped a _____ in wing colour across the butterfly's range.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek klīnō, "to lean" or "slope" — coined in 1938 by biologist Julian Huxley to describe gradual biological variation.
Rhymes for cline
See all rhymes for cline →Frequently asked questions
What does “cline” mean?
The word “cline” means a gradual change in a trait across a range of related populations or forms. In plain terms, a gradual, sliding-scale change from one form or trait to another, rather than a sharp jump.
How do you pronounce “cline”?
“Cline” is pronounced klyn (/klaɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “cline” in a sentence?
Here is “cline” used in a sentence: “Scientists mapped a cline in wing colour across the butterfly's range.”
What part of speech is “cline”?
“Cline” is a noun.
Where does the word “cline” come from?
The word “cline” dates back to around 1938 and comes from Ancient Greek. From Ancient Greek klīnō, "to lean" or "slope" — coined in 1938 by biologist Julian Huxley to describe gradual biological variation.
How many meanings does “cline” have?
“Cline” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a gradual change in a trait across a range of related populations or forms.
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