Anagenetical

/ˌænədʒəˈnɛtɪkəl/ adjective

Definition

An alternative, more formal form of anagenetic, meaning relating to gradual evolutionary change within a single lineage.

Etymology

Extended form of anagenetic using the suffix -al for emphasis or formality, common in 19th-century scientific terminology when both -ic and -ical forms were used interchangeably.

Kelly Says

This word shows how English loves to have fancy alternatives—anagenetic and anagenetical mean the same thing, but anagenetical sounds more formal and scientific, which is why older textbooks prefer it.

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