Definition

Noun: 1. A theological doctrine: The belief that Jesus Christ was born to the Virgin Mary without a human father, considered a miraculous fulfillment of prophecy in Christian faith. 2. A biological phenomenon: A form of reproduction where an egg develops into a new individual without being fertilized by a male; parthenogenesis.

Usage and Examples

• The central miracle of the virgin birth is a cornerstone of the Christmas story for many Christians.
• Some species of insects and reptiles are capable of virgin birth through a process called parthenogenesis.
• The doctrine of the Virgin Birth is explicitly mentioned in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.

Advanced Usage

• "the Virgin Birth" (often capitalized): Specifically refers to the birth of Jesus Christ, distinguishing it from the general biological term.
  • Debates about the Virgin Birth often focus on its theological significance versus historical evidence.

Variants and Related Words

• Parthenogenesis (n): The scientific term for asexual reproduction where an unfertilized egg develops into a new individual; a biological virgin birth.
• Nativity (n): The occasion or feast day celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, which encompasses the story of the virgin birth.

Synonyms

• (Theological): Miraculous conception.
• (Biological): Parthenogenesis, asexual reproduction.

Notes on Different Meanings

The term operates in two distinct domains: 1. Theological/Doctrinal: An article of faith concerning a unique, singular historical and supernatural event. 2. Biological/Scientific: A rare but observed reproductive strategy in certain plants and animals. The meaning is typically clear from the context (e.g., discussing religion vs. zoology).

Noun

1. the theological doctrine that Jesus Christ had no human father; Christians believe that Jesus's birth fulfilled Old Testament prophecies and was attended by miracles; the Nativity is celebrated at Christmas
2. human conception without fertilization by a man