Definition

Noun: 1. Asexual reproduction by a single parent organism, resulting in offspring genetically identical to the parent. This biological process does not involve the fusion of gametes. 2. (Anthropology/Linguistics) The theory of a single origin. For example, the theory that all human languages descended from a single ancestral language (monogenesis of language) or that humanity originated from a single pair of ancestors.

Usage

• Biological Context: Used to describe a specific mode of asexual reproduction. >
• Theoretical Context: Used in academic discussions about origins. >

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in contrast to polygenesis (the theory of multiple, independent origins).
• In biology, it can be synonymous with terms like agamogenesis or asexual reproduction, though it specifically implies a single, direct line of descent.

Variants and Related Words

• Monogenetic (adjective): Relating to or characterized by monogenesis. >

Synonyms

• Biology: asexual reproduction, agamogenesis, sporogenesis (in the context of spore production).
• Theory: single-origin theory, unigenesis.

Antonyms

• Biology: sexual reproduction, amphigony.
• Theory: polygenesis, multiple-origin theory.

Noun

1. asexual reproduction by the production and release of spores