genetic
juh-NEHT-ihk
Genetic (adj) means relating to genes or heredity. Example: “The disease has a strong genetic component.”
adj
1
Relating to genes or heredity.
"The disease has a strong genetic component."
"Scientists study genetic differences between species."
"Doctors asked about her family history to check for genetic conditions."
2
Relating to the origin or development of something.
"The two languages share a genetic connection going back centuries."
How to use genetic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo do with genes, heredity, or the origins of something.
Common pairings
genetic disorder
genetic testing
genetic material
genetic engineering
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Etymology
Coined from genesis ("origin"), modelled on words like "antithesis"/"antithetic".
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for genetic
emetic
poetic
heretic
kinetic
ascetic
diuretic
frenetic
magnetic
cosmetic
athletic
diabetic
pathetic
See all rhymes for genetic →
Frequently asked questions
What does “genetic” mean?
The word “genetic” means relating to genes or heredity. In plain terms, to do with genes, heredity, or the origins of something.
How do you pronounce “genetic”?
“Genetic” is pronounced juh-NEHT-ihk (/d͡ʒəˈnɛt.ɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “genetic” in a sentence?
Here is “genetic” used in a sentence: “The disease has a strong genetic component.”
What is another word for “genetic”?
Words with a similar meaning to “genetic” include genealogical, genic and hereditary.
What part of speech is “genetic”?
“Genetic” is an adjective.
Is “genetic” a common word?
“Genetic” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “genetic” have?
“Genetic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to genes or heredity.
What is the difference between genetic and hereditary?
'Genetic' relates to genes and can describe traits caused by genes whether or not they are passed on. 'Hereditary' specifically means passed from parent to child through the generations, so a genetic condition can arise from a new mutation and not be hereditary.
What is the difference between genetic and congenital?
'Genetic' means relating to genes or heredity, pointing to the biological cause. 'Congenital' simply means present at birth, whatever the cause; a congenital trait may be genetic, but it can also result from other factors before birth.
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