Definition

The process by which an organism develops from an egg or spore, involving the differentiation of unstructured cell masses into specialized organs and systems.

Example

The concept of epigenesis explains how complex organisms develop from simple beginnings.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about epigenesis in biology?

Yeah, it's pretty fascinating how it explains development from an unstructured egg.

Exactly! It really changes how we think about growth and differentiation.

For sure, it's amazing to see how complex life can emerge from such simple beginnings.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Epigenesis is formed from "epi-" (meaning upon or over) and "genesis" (from Greek "genesis", meaning origin or creation). The term refers to the process of development or creation that occurs upon or over a pre-existing structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'epi-' meaning 'upon' and 'genesis' meaning 'creation' — this helps you remember that epigenesis refers to the development that occurs on top of an existing foundation.

Visually Confused Words