punctuated equilibrium
nounDefinition of punctuated equilibrium
: evolution that is characterized by long periods of stability in the characteristics of an organism and short periods of rapid change during which new forms appear especially from small subpopulations of the ancestral form in restricted parts of its geographic range also : a theory or model of evolution emphasizing this — compare gradualism sense 2
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on punctuated equilibrium
What made you want to look up punctuated equilibrium? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Difficult Vocab Quiz
-
- Which is a synonym of discomfit?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
Share punctuated equilibrium
Resources for punctuated equilibrium