ˈmend ə lz- noun
Usage: usually capitalized M
Etymology: after Gregor J. Mendel, its formulator
1. : a principle in genetics: paired hereditary units representing alternate characters (as tallness or dwarfness) separate during the formation of gametes so that every gamete receives but one member of a pair — called also law of segregation
2. : a principle in genetics limited and modified as a result of the subsequent discovery of the phenomenon of linkage: the corresponding hereditary units in a pair of gametes unite in the zygote to form new combinations and recombinations according to the laws of chance — called also law of independent assortment
3. : a principle in genetics proved subsequently to be subject to many limitations: because one of each pair of hereditary units dominates the other in expression, characters are inherited alternatively on an all or nothing basis — called also law of dominance ; compare blending inheritance