Assortative is a term that is used to describe the process of selecting a mate or partner based on certain characteristics. It is often used in the context of genetics, where individuals with similar traits or genetic makeup are more likely to mate with each other. However, assortative can also refer to social and economic factors, such as education level or income.
Definitions
Assortative is an adjective that describes the process of selecting a mate or partner based on certain characteristics. This can include physical traits, such as height or eye color, as well as social and economic factors, such as education level or income.
Origin
The term assortative comes from the Latin word “assortare,” which means “to sort or arrange.” The term was first used in the early 20th century in the field of genetics, where it was used to describe the process of selecting mates based on similar traits.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, assortative means “tending to associate with others of the same kind or degree.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “the tendency of individuals to mate with others who have similar characteristics.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the tendency of individuals to mate with others who share similar characteristics or traits.”
Associations
Assortative is often associated with genetics and the process of selecting mates based on similar traits. However, it can also be associated with social and economic factors, such as education level or income.
Synonyms
Synonyms of assortative include selective, discriminatory, and discriminatory.
Antonyms
Antonyms of assortative include non-selective, indiscriminate, and random.
The same root words
The same root words as assortative include assort, assortment, and assorter.
Example Sentences
- The study found that there was a high degree of assortative mating among individuals with similar educational backgrounds.
- The researchers observed assortative behavior among the birds, as they tended to mate with others of the same color.
- The company’s hiring practices were criticized for being too assortative, as they tended to hire only individuals from certain schools and backgrounds.