genetics

noun

ge·​net·​ics jə-ˈne-tiks 

plural in form but singular in construction

1

: a branch of biology that deals with the heredity and variation of organisms

2

: the genetic makeup and phenomena of an organism, type, group, or condition

geneticist

jə-ˈne-tə-sist 

noun

Examples of genetics in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Eligibility for women’s competition will be determined by a one-time mandatory genetics test, according to the IOC. —Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 27 Mar. 2026

In a biological family, that feeling may be rooted in genetics — maintaining the family line. —Brian Barth, Mercury News, 27 Feb. 2026

Lavalley also encourages people to speak more about the role genetics plays in cardiovascular health. —Sara Moniuszko, USA Today, 10 Feb. 2026

Renfrow Smith became part of medical research focused on aging, including SuperAger studies at the University of Chicago and Northwestern University, as well as a genetics study in Boston. —Nick El Hajj, Des Moines Register, 5 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing genetics

• molecular genetics

Rhymes for genetics

• aesthetics
• ascetics
• asthmatics
• athletics
• cosmetics
• emetics
• esthetics
• kinetics
• magnetics
• phonetics
• poetics
• prosthetics

Kids Definition

genetics

noun

ge·​net·​ics jə-ˈnet-iks 

: a branch of biology that deals with the inherited traits and variation of organisms

Medical Definition

genetics

noun, plural in form but singular in construction

ge·​net·​ics jə-ˈnet-iks 

1

a

: a branch of biology that deals with the heredity and variation of organisms

b

: a treatise or textbook on genetics

2

: the genetic makeup and phenomena of an organism, type, group, or condition