HOMOLOGOUS - Definition & Meaning for Kids

Simple definitions and word synonyms for kids.

Part of speech: Adjective

having the same evolutionary origin but not necessarily the same function

Example: the wing of a bat and the arm of a man are homologous

Part of speech: Adjective

corresponding or similar in position or structure or function or characteristics; especially derived from an organism of the same species

Example: a homologous tissue graft

homolog – A related word in the same word family.

homologue – A related word in the same word family.

Tracking word families reveals how metaphors hardened into literal meanings over time.