Definition

Relating to the observable characteristics or traits of an organism, which are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.

Example

The phenotypic variations in the population were studied to understand how traits are inherited.

Conversation

I learned something interesting about phenotypic traits in class today.

Oh really? What did you find out?

We discussed how environment can influence phenotypic expression in plants.

That's cool! Nature vs. nurture always fascinates me.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phenotypic → It is formed from "pheno-" (from Greek "phainō", meaning to show or to appear) and "-typic" (from Greek "typos", meaning type or model). The word "phenotypic" 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 'type' ('-typic') of an organism — that's what phenotypic means, the visible traits that are expressed.

Visually Confused Words