: a theory of evolution that is a synthesis of Darwin's theory in terms of natural selection and modern population genetics

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of neo-Darwinism was circa 1900

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Neo-Darwinism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neo-Darwinism. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

neo-Darwinism

noun
: a theory of evolution that is a synthesis of Darwin's theory in terms of natural selection and modern population genetics

More from Merriam-Webster on neo-Darwinism

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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