1. the evolutionary history and development of a species or trait from its earliest forms to the present
Usage: biology, evolutionary science
2. the sequence of evolutionary changes that a group of organisms has undergone
Usage: biology

Examples

• The phylogeny of whales shows they evolved from land-dwelling mammals.
• Scientists study phylogeny to understand how different species are related.
• DNA analysis has revolutionized our understanding of phylogeny across the animal kingdom.
• The phylogeny of humans reveals our closest living relatives are chimpanzees.
• Comparing phylogenies of different organisms helps biologists construct the tree of life.
• Fossil records provide important evidence for reconstructing the phylogeny of extinct species.