adj

Darwinian

dah-WIH-nee-uhn

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Darwinian (adj) means relating to Charles Darwin's theory that species evolve through natural selection. Example: “The textbook gives a clear summary of Darwinian evolution.”

adj

Relating to Charles Darwin's theory that species evolve through natural selection.

"The textbook gives a clear summary of Darwinian evolution."

"Darwinian theory reshaped how biologists understand species change."

Fiercely competitive, as if only the strongest survive.

"The startup world can feel brutally Darwinian, with only the fittest companies surviving."

How to use Darwinian

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishRelating to Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection, or more loosely, describing any harshly competitive "survival of the fittest" situation.

Common pairings

Darwinian evolution Darwinian struggle Darwinian theory

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: Darwinians
Comparative: more Darwinian
Superlative: most Darwinian

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The textbook gives a clear summary of _____ evolution.

Etymology

From the surname Darwin plus the adjective-forming suffix -ian, referring to the naturalist Charles Darwin.

Rhymes for Darwinian

Asian radian Fabian Indian Syrian simian median Italian Russian Persian Serbian Latvian

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Frequently asked questions

What does “Darwinian” mean?

The word “Darwinian” means relating to Charles Darwin's theory that species evolve through natural selection. In plain terms, relating to Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection, or more loosely, describing any harshly competitive "survival of the fittest" situation.

How do you pronounce “Darwinian”?

“Darwinian” is pronounced dah-WIH-nee-uhn (/dɑɹˈwɪ.ni.ən/ in IPA).

How do you use “Darwinian” in a sentence?

Here is “Darwinian” used in a sentence: “The textbook gives a clear summary of Darwinian evolution.”

What part of speech is “Darwinian”?

“Darwinian” is an adjective.

How many meanings does “Darwinian” have?

“Darwinian” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to Charles Darwin's theory that species evolve through natural selection.