synapomorphy

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

plural syn·ap·o·mor·phies

Definition of SYNAPOMORPHY

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

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

First Known Use: 1965

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