Pronunciation: /juːˈdʒɛnɪks/

Definitions of eugenics

noun the study of or belief in the possibility of improving the human race by selective breeding

Example Sentences

A1 Eugenics is the study of how to improve the human race through selective breeding.

A2 Some people believe that eugenics can lead to a better society by controlling who can have children.

B1 The history of eugenics is controversial, as it has been used in the past to justify discrimination and forced sterilization.

B2 There are ethical concerns surrounding the practice of eugenics, especially when it comes to issues of consent and autonomy.

C1 Eugenics was popular in the early 20th century, but fell out of favor after World War II due to its association with Nazi Germany.

C2 Modern discussions of eugenics often focus on the potential for genetic engineering to improve human health and intelligence.

Examples of eugenics in a Sentence

formal The study of eugenics aims to improve the genetic quality of the human population through selective breeding.

informal Some people believe that eugenics is a controversial topic that should not be discussed openly.

slang I heard that eugenics is all about trying to create a 'perfect' human race.

figurative In the world of fashion, there seems to be a form of eugenics where only the 'ideal' body types are celebrated.

Grammatical Forms of eugenics

plural

eugenics

present tense

eugenics

future tense

will eugenics

perfect tense

has eugenics

continuous tense

is eugenics

singular

eugenics

positive degree

eugenics

infinitive

to eugenics

gerund

eugenicsing

participle

eugenicsed

Origin and Evolution of eugenics

First Known Use: 1883 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The word 'eugenics' was coined by Sir Francis Galton, a British scientist and cousin of Charles Darwin, in the late 19th century.
Evolution of the word: Originally, eugenics was meant to improve the human race through selective breeding and sterilization of 'undesirable' traits. However, it later became associated with discriminatory and unethical practices, leading to its controversial reputation today.