Definition

The process of development of an individual organism from its earliest stage as an embryo to its mature form.

Example

The study of ontogeny helps scientists understand how organisms grow and develop over time.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the concept of ontogeny in biology?

Not really, what does it refer to?

It's about how an organism develops from an embryo to its adult form.

That sounds fascinating! I never knew there was a term for that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ontogeny is formed from "onto-" (from Greek "ontos", meaning being or existence) and "geny" (from Greek "genes", meaning born of or produced by). The term refers to the development or course of development of an individual organism from the earliest stage to maturity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'being' ('onto-') and 'produced' ('geny') to remember that ontogeny describes the development of a living being from its earliest stages.

Visually Confused Words