preformation

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Definitions from WordNet

Noun preformation has 1 sense

preformation, theory of preformation - a theory (popular in the 18th century and now discredited) that an individual develops by simple enlargement of a tiny fully formed organism (a homunculus) that exists in the germ cell
--₁ is a kind of theory

Derived form: verb preform₂

Preformation

Description:

Preformation refers to the theory that all organisms exist fully formed within miniature versions of themselves from the moment of conception or creation. It is a concept that was prominent in early biological and philosophical thinking, emphasizing the idea of preexisting structures determining an organism's development.

Senses:

Noun (Biology):

In biology, preformation refers to the theory that an organism's complete form, including all its features, is already present within the germ cell or egg before fertilization occurs. According to this notion, development involves the unfolding of preexisting structures rather than the generation of entirely new ones.

Example sentence: The preformation theory proposed that a miniature human, known as a homunculus, already existed within the sperm or egg, waiting for fertilization to trigger its growth into a fully developed individual.

Noun (Philosophy):

In philosophy, preformation refers to the belief that all things in the universe were created in their final form, with no possibility of growth or change. This concept often attributes existence to a divine act, suggesting that everything preexists in a perfect and unchanging state.

Example sentence: The philosopher argued for the preformation of the universe, claiming that every aspect of reality was predetermined and fixed by a divine creator.

Noun (Music):

In music, preformation refers to the practice of preforming or pre-recording parts of a musical composition, which are then played back during a live performance. This technique allows for more complexity and layering of sounds that would be difficult to recreate solely through real-time performance.

Example sentence: The band used preformation to add orchestral elements to their live concert, using pre-recorded segments that seamlessly blended with their onstage performance.