Homologue

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈhɒməlɒɡ/

Definitions

• A biological term used to describe a gene or structure that has a common evolutionary origin, often compared across different species.
• In chemistry, a compound that is related to another by the replacement of one or more atoms in a molecular structure.
• In linguistics, a word or term that is derived from or related to another word with the same root or meaning, often indicating an equivalent in another language.

Usage Examples

• The homologue gene in mice is very similar to the human gene responsible for vision.
• In linguistics, the term "homologue" is used to describe words in different languages that share a common root.
• The two chemical compounds are considered homologues, as one is derived by substituting a chlorine atom for a hydrogen atom in the other.

Etymology

The word "homologue" comes from the Greek word "homologos," meaning "agreeing" or "corresponding." It is formed by combining "homo" (same) and "logos" (word or reasoning), reflecting the idea of correspondence or similarity across different contexts, such as biology, linguistics, or chemistry.

Synonyms

• Equivalent
• Counterpart
• Parallel

Antonyms

• Antagonist
• Opposite
• Non-corresponding

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "homologue" is generally consistent across regions, but in certain areas, the stress may fall differently, such as on the first syllable in some British English dialects and on the second syllable in others.

Historical Usage

The term "homologue" was first used in the mid-19th century in scientific contexts, particularly in biology and chemistry, to describe similar structures or compounds found across different species or chemical families. Over time, the usage expanded into other disciplines, including linguistics, where it now describes words with similar meanings or origins in different languages.

Cultural Nuances

In modern biology, the term "homologue" is crucial in comparative genetics, as it helps to trace evolutionary relationships between species. In linguistics, understanding homologues can offer insights into language development and the relationship between cultures. In chemical sciences, homologues are essential for understanding molecular structures and reactions across related compounds.

More Information

The concept of homologues plays a significant role in a variety of scientific fields. In genetics, homologous genes across different organisms often share similar functions, providing insight into evolutionary processes. In chemistry, homologues in a series of compounds (e.g., alkanes) have similar structures and properties, making them useful for chemical studies. In linguistics, homologues in different languages often have shared roots, indicating historical connections between languages. The use of homologues in these fields enhances our understanding of both the natural world and the human-made environment.