Definition

Proper noun A French naturalist, biologist, and early proponent of the idea that evolution occurs and that organisms can pass on traits acquired during their lifetime to their offspring. This theory is known as Lamarckism or the inheritance of acquired characteristics.

Usage

The word "Lamarck" is used almost exclusively as a proper noun to refer to the historical figure Jean-Baptiste Lamarck or to his theories. * His full name was Jean-Baptiste Lamarck. * The ideas of Lamarck were influential but were later superseded by Darwin's theory of natural selection. * Some modern research in epigenetics has led to a renewed, though limited, interest in Lamarckian concepts.

Advanced Usage

• Lamarckian (adjective): Pertaining to the theories of Lamarck.
  • The experiment was designed to test a Lamarckian hypothesis.
• Lamarckism (noun): The theory of evolution based on the inheritance of acquired characteristics.
  • While largely discredited, Lamarckism was an important step in the history of evolutionary thought.

Variants and Related Words

• Lamarckian: (adjective) Of or relating to Lamarck or his theory.
• Lamarckism: (noun) The theory associated with Lamarck.
• Neo-Lamarckism: (noun) Modern interpretations or revivals of Lamarckian ideas, often in light of new genetic understanding.

Synonyms

• Jean-Baptiste Lamarck (full name)
• Lamarckian theorist (descriptive)

Related Terms and Concepts

• Inheritance of acquired characteristics: The core concept of Lamarckism, suggesting that an organism can pass on physical changes it acquired during its life to its offspring.
• Use and disuse: A Lamarckian principle stating that organs used extensively become stronger and more developed, while those not used deteriorate.
• Darwinism: The theory of evolution by natural selection, which became the dominant explanation, contrasting with Lamarckism.

Noun

1. French naturalist who proposed that evolution resulted from the inheritance of acquired characteristics (1744-1829)