1. having multiple origins or sources of development
Usage: scientific; technical
2. relating to or involving polygenesis (the theory that different human races evolved separately)
Usage: anthropology; historical

Examples

• The polygenetic nature of the disease suggests multiple environmental factors are involved.
• Scientists discovered that the mineral formation was polygenetic, resulting from several geological processes.
• The polygenetic theory of human origins was popular in the 19th century but has been largely discredited.
• This polygenetic approach helps explain the complex evolutionary history of the species.
• The researcher argued for a polygenetic model to account for the diverse characteristics observed.
• Polygenetic inheritance patterns can make genetic counseling more challenging.