Cline Meaning in English
word
Definition
A cline is a gradual change in a specific trait or characteristic of a species over a geographic area, such as color or size differences across regions.
Usage & Nuances
"Cline" is a technical term used mainly in biology and genetics. It often refers to gradual variation across geography, not abrupt changes. Not used in everyday English; mostly occurs in scientific contexts.
Example Sentences
A cline can show how animals change in size from north to south.
basic
Scientists study the cline of bird colors across islands.
basic
Temperature can cause a cline in plant height over a region.
basic
The butterfly wing patterns show a clear cline from west to east.
natural
They mapped the genetic cline across several mountain ranges.
natural
You’ll often spot a cline if you look at animal fur thickness from warm to cold climates.
natural