What does "monogenesis" mean?
The theory that mankind originated with a single ancestor or ancestral couple.
Monogenesis
/mɒnəˈd͡ʒɛnəsɪs/ noun
noun ·Rare ·Advanced level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: The theory that mankind originated with a single ancestor or ancestral couple.
- Grammar: monogenesis is listed as noun.
- Nearest alternatives: birth, development, generation, genesis.
- Useful contrasts: polygenesis.
- Usage evidence: Some held that negritude was a product of living under the tropical sun, a perhaps beneficial adaptation to a fierce climate – an environmentalist solution chiming with monogenesis and Lockean malleability models.
How to use "monogenesis"
- Start with the primary definition, then check the part of speech before placing the word in a sentence.
- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "monogenesis" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
- Does the word fit the sentence's grammar?
- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
- Would a simpler synonym be clearer for the reader?
- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "monogenesis" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
Read the first definition as a starting point, then check the example, synonyms, and part of speech before treating "monogenesis" as the right word for your sentence.
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Compare nearby meanings
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Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "monogenesis" is acting as noun in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
Compare it with "birth" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
Use the example sentence below as an evidence check, then read your own sentence out loud to catch tone or rhythm problems.
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Final meaning check
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When the definition, synonym evidence, and example context point in the same direction, the word is usually a safer choice. When they conflict, revise the sentence or choose a clearer alternative.
Definitions
Noun
- 1 The theory that mankind originated with a single ancestor or ancestral couple. uncountable, usually
"Some held that negritude was a product of living under the tropical sun, a perhaps beneficial adaptation to a fierce climate – an environmentalist solution chiming with monogenesis and Lockean malleability models."
- 2 asexual reproduction by the production and release of spores wordnet
- 3 The theory that all languages, or a particular set of languages, originated from a single source. uncountable, usually
- 4 Development of the ovum from a parent like itself. uncountable, usually
- 5 Development of the ovum from a parent like itself.; Asexual/nonsexual reproduction, which involves only one parent. uncountable, usually
Show 1 more definition
- 6 The emergence from a single cause or origin. uncountable, usually
"The view that one parent tale in one fixed location spawned numerous progeny the world over has come to be known as the theory of monogenesis and diffusion. The contrasting theory of polygenesis assumes that resemblances among tales can be attributed to independent invention in places unconnected by trade routes or travel."
Antonyms
Example
"Some held that negritude was a product of living under the tropical sun, a perhaps beneficial adaptation to a fierce climate – an environmentalist solution chiming with monogenesis and Lockean malleability models."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "monogenesis"?
Common synonyms include: birth, development, generation, genesis, parthenogenesis, procreation.
How do you use "monogenesis" in a sentence?
Some held that negritude was a product of living under the tropical sun, a perhaps beneficial adaptation to a fierce climate – an environmentalist solution chiming with monogenesis and Lockean malleability models.
How do you pronounce "monogenesis"?
Pronounced /mɒnəˈd͡ʒɛnəsɪs/.
Etymology
From mono- + -genesis.