Definition

Connected to the study or practice of improving the genetic quality of a population, often through selective breeding.

Example

The eugenic policies of the early 20th century aimed to enhance the genetic traits of future generations.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about eugenic practices in history?

Yeah, I read about it in a book, but it was pretty controversial.

Right? It's interesting to think about how people viewed genetics back then.

Definitely, it raises a lot of ethical questions for today.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Eugenic → It is formed from "eu-" (from Greek "eu", meaning good or well) and "genes" (from Greek "genes", meaning born of or produced by). The word "eugenic" refers to the idea of good birth or well-born, often in the context of improving the genetic quality of a population.

Memory Tip

Think of 'eu-' meaning 'good' and 'genes' meaning 'born of' — this helps you remember that eugenic relates to the concept of good birth.

Visually Confused Words