Definition

The physical and biological traits of an organism that can be seen or measured, which are influenced by both its genes and the environment.

Example

The phenotype of the plant includes its height, flower color, and leaf shape.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about what your phenotype says about you?

Not really, but I guess it includes things like my height and eye color.

Exactly! It's interesting how much our environment can influence our phenotype.

Yeah, and it makes me wonder how different I might look in a different place!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phenotype → It is formed from "pheno-" (from Greek "phainō", meaning to show or to appear) and "type" (from Greek "typos", meaning a model or impression). The word "phenotype" refers to the observable characteristics or traits of an organism, which are shown or expressed based on its genetic makeup.

Memory Tip

Think of 'showing' ('pheno-') the 'model' or 'impression' ('type') of an organism's traits — that's what phenotype means.

Visually Confused Words