inbred

word

Definition

Describes an animal, plant, or sometimes a group that has been produced by breeding closely related individuals, often leading to reduced genetic diversity and potential health or quality problems.

Usage & Nuances

Usually technical or formal; used in biology, genetics, and sometimes as a metaphor for insular communities. Negative connotation, suggesting problems from lack of diversity. Not typically used for people directly in polite conversation.

Example Sentences

The farm avoided using inbred animals to keep the herd healthy.

basic

Inbred plants often have weaker resistance to disease.

basic

Scientists study how being inbred affects animals’ growth.

basic

Over generations, the dogs became highly inbred, leading to health problems.

natural

He used the term 'inbred' jokingly to describe a small, isolated town.

natural

Some purebred horses are so inbred that breeders worry about their long-term fitness.

natural