Homologous
/həʊˈmɑːləɡəs/adjective
Similar in position, structure, function, or characteristics.
The wings of a bat and the arms of a human are homologous, meaning they have a similar structure.
Usage tips
Formal
Technical
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Biology Focus
Used to describe similarities in living beings due to shared ancestry.
In biology class, we learned that homologous limbs indicate common evolution.
Pro Tip 2/3Structure Over Function
Emphasizes structure similarity, even if functions differ.
Although used for flying, the homologous structures of bird wings and human hands are evident.
Pro Tip 3/3Evolutionary Evidence
Suggests evidence of evolution in comparative anatomy.
Scientists use homologous bones to trace the evolution of vertebrates.
Compare with
akincomparatorconsistentcorrespondequivalentidenticalrelatesimilar
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