macroevolution
noun
mac·ro·evo·lu·tion
ˈma-krō-ˌe-və-ˈlü-shən 
also -ˌē-və-
: evolution that results in relatively large and complex changes (as in species formation)
Examples of macroevolution in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
New dinosaur discovery may be the closest relative to Tyrannosaurus rex, scientists say
The findings will also help researchers enhance the understanding of macroevolution and how species adapted to specific environments over time, according to the paper.
—
Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 18 Feb. 2025
Identifying species and the process by which new species emerge from fossils falls in the realm of macroevolution, or evolution over broad time scales.
—Briana Pobiner and Ryan McRae, Smithsonian Magazine, 28 Dec. 2021
These facts are every bit as solid and universally attested as climate change or macroevolution.
—Samuel James, National Review, 14 Feb. 2020
Rather, Abzhanov showed that the same forces that shape microevolution — minor alterations within species — also drive macroevolution, the evolution of whole new features and new groups of species.
—Quanta Magazine, 2 June 2015
Jon Tennant is currently undertaking a PhD in vertebrate macroevolution in London.
—Guest Blogger, Discover Magazine, 21 Feb. 2013
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Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 18 Feb. 2025
Identifying species and the process by which new species emerge from fossils falls in the realm of macroevolution, or evolution over broad time scales.
—Briana Pobiner and Ryan McRae, Smithsonian Magazine, 28 Dec. 2021
These facts are every bit as solid and universally attested as climate change or macroevolution.
—Samuel James, National Review, 14 Feb. 2020
Rather, Abzhanov showed that the same forces that shape microevolution — minor alterations within species — also drive macroevolution, the evolution of whole new features and new groups of species.
—Quanta Magazine, 2 June 2015
Jon Tennant is currently undertaking a PhD in vertebrate macroevolution in London.
—Guest Blogger, Discover Magazine, 21 Feb. 2013
Cite this Entry
“Macroevolution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/macroevolution. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.
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