Darwinian
|Dar-wi-ni-an|
🇺🇸
/dɑrˈwɪniən/
🇬🇧
/ˌdɑːrˈwɪniən/
related to Darwin / natural selection
Etymology
'Darwinian' originates from the English proper name 'Darwin' (from Charles Darwin), combined with the suffix '-ian' which comes via Latin/French and means 'related to' or 'belonging to'.
'Darwinian' was formed in the mid-19th century after Charles Darwin's works (such as 'On the Origin of Species') gained prominence; the name 'Darwin' + suffix '-ian' produced 'Darwinian' to describe ideas, people, or attributes associated with Darwin or his theories.
Initially it meant 'of or relating to Charles Darwin' (i.e., pertaining to the man), and it quickly broadened to mean 'relating to Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection' and qualities attributed to that theory.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who supports or advocates the theory of evolution by natural selection (Darwinism); a Darwinist.
As a prominent Darwinian, she defended natural selection in public lectures.
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Adjective 1
relating to or characteristic of Charles Darwin or his theories, especially the theory of evolution by natural selection; reflecting the principles of natural selection or 'survival of the fittest.'
The debate focused on Darwinian explanations for the origin of complex traits.
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Last updated: 2025/10/27 15:18