Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

synapomorphy

noun syn·ap·o·mor·phy \ (ˌ)si-ˈna-pə-ˌmȯr-fē \

Definition of synapomorphy

plural synapomorphies
: a character or trait that is shared by two or more taxonomic groups and is derived through evolution from a common ancestral form

Origin and Etymology of synapomorphy

International Scientific Vocabulary syn- + apomorphy derived evolutionary trait or feature (from apo- + -morphy)

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up synapomorphy? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games