Hereditability

/ˌhɛrɪtəˈbɪləti/ noun

Definition

The quality or state of being able to be inherited from parents to children.

Etymology

From 'heritable' plus the suffix '-ity' meaning state or condition. This term develops from Old French 'heriter' and Latin 'heres,' tracking how traits pass between generations.

Kelly Says

Scientists use this word to describe how much of a trait—like height or intelligence—comes from your parents' genes versus your environment, which is crucial for understanding nature versus nurture.

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