epigenesis Hear it!

epigenesis definition

epi·gen·esis (ep′i jenə sis)

noun

  1. Biol. the theory that the embryo, influenced by its internal and external environment, develops progressively by stages, forming structures that were not originally present in the egg
  2. Geol. a type of metamorphism in which the mineral content of a rock changes as a result of external influences
  3. Med.
    1. the appearing of secondary symptoms
    2. a secondary symptom

Etymology: ModL: see epi- & -genesis

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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