Definition

Not having the same structure or origin; not derived from a common ancestor.

Example

The two species have nonhomologous traits that evolved independently.

Conversation

Did you know that some genes are nonhomologous?

Really? I thought all genes had to be homologous in some way.

Not necessarily, there are actually many nonhomologous sequences in different species.

That’s interesting! I guess it shows how varied genetics can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonhomologous → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "homologous" (from Greek "homologos", meaning corresponding or having the same relation). The word "nonhomologous" describes elements that do not correspond or have the same relation to each other.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') corresponding or having the same relation ('homologous') — that's why nonhomologous means they do not match or relate in the same way.

Visually Confused Words