homology

[ huh-mol-uh-jee, hoh- ]
/ həˈmɒl ə dʒi, hoʊ- /

noun, plural ho·mol·o·gies.

the state of being homologous; homologous relation or correspondence.
Biology.
  1. a fundamental similarity based on common descent.
  2. a structural similarity of two segments of one animal based on a common developmental origin.
Chemistry. the similarity of organic compounds of a series in which each member differs from its adjacent compounds by a fixed increment, as by CH2.
Mathematics. a classification of figures according to certain topological properties.

Origin of homology

1650–60; < Greek homología agreement, equivalent to homólog(os) homologous + -ia -y3

Example sentences from the Web for homology

  • Homology is still determined by position, by connections, in the embryo as in the adult.

    Form and Function |E. S. (Edward Stuart) Russell

British Dictionary definitions for homology

homology
/ (həʊˈmɒlədʒɪ) /

noun plural -gies

the condition of being homologous
chem the similarities in chemical behaviour shown by members of a homologous series
zoology the measurable likenesses between animals, as used in grouping them according to the theory of cladistics

Word Origin for homology

C17: from Greek homologia agreement, from homologos agreeing; see homologate

Scientific definitions for homology

homology
[ hə-mŏlə-jē ]

A homologous relationship or correspondence.
The relation of the chemical elements of a periodic family or group.
The relation of the organic compounds forming a homologous series.
A topological classification of configurations into distinct types that imposes an algebraic structure or hierarchy on families of geometric figures.