parthenogenesis

 
Pronunciation: /ˌpɑːθɪnə(ʊ)ˈdʒɛnɪsɪs/

noun

[mass noun] Biology
  • reproduction from an ovum without fertilization, especially as a normal process in some invertebrates and lower plants: cyclic parthenogenesis is well displayed in aphids

Derivatives

parthenogenetic

Pronunciation: /-dʒɪˈnɛtɪk/
adjective

parthenogenetically

Pronunciation: /-dʒɪˈnɛtɪk(ə)li/
adverb

Origin:

mid 19th century: modern Latin, from Greek parthenos 'virgin' + genesis 'creation'