Lamarck, Jean-Baptiste

Definition

A French naturalist who is best known for his theory of inheritance of acquired characteristics, suggesting that organisms can pass on traits acquired during their lifetimes to their offspring.

Etymology

From the name of Jean-Baptiste Pierre Antoine de Monet, Chevalier de Lamarck (1744-1829), a pioneer in early evolutionary theory.

Example

Jean-Baptiste Lamarck proposed that the giraffe's long neck evolved as a result of ancestral giraffes stretching their necks to reach high leaves.

Synonyms

• Lamarck

Related Terms

• Evolution
• Inheritance of acquired characteristics
• Lamarckism
• Naturalist

Usage Notes

Lamarck is often contrasted with Charles Darwin, whose theory of natural selection became more widely accepted.