vicariance

noun

vi·​car·​i·​ance vī-ˈker-ē-ən(t)s How to pronounce vicariance (audio)
və-
: fragmentation of the environment (as by splitting of a tectonic plate) in contrast to dispersal as a factor in promoting biological evolution by division of large populations into isolated subpopulations

called also vicariance biogeography

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vicariance was in 1957

Dictionary Entries Near vicariance

Cite this Entry

“Vicariance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vicariance. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!