plesiomorphic

[plee-see-uh-mawr-fik]

plesiomorphic Definition

relating to or exhibiting ancestral characteristics.

Using plesiomorphic: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "plesiomorphic" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The plesiomorphic trait is present in both the ancestor and the descendant species.

  • Example

    The plesiomorphic feature of the bird's wing is its structure similar to that of a reptile.

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Summary: plesiomorphic in Brief

The term 'plesiomorphic' [plee-see-uh-mawr-fik] is an adjective that refers to characteristics that are ancestral or primitive. It is used in evolutionary biology to describe traits that are present in both the ancestor and the descendant species. For example, the plesiomorphic feature of the bird's wing is its structure similar to that of a reptile.