Meaning of MELANISM
| Pronunciation: | | 'melu`nizum
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 WordNet Dictionary |
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| | Definition: | | [n] a condition characterized by abnormal deposits of melanin (especially in the skin) |
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| | Synonyms: | | melanosis |
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| | See Also: | | disease of the skin, skin condition, skin disease, skin disorder, skin problem | |
| Webster's 1913 Dictionary |
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\Mel"a*nism\ (m[e^]l"[.a]*n[i^]z'm), n. [Gr. me`las,
-anos, black.]
1. An undue development of dark-colored pigment in the skin
or its appendages; -- the opposite of albinism.
2. (Med.) A disease; black jaundice. See {Mel?na}.
\Mel"a*nism\, n. (Ethnol.)
The character of having a high degree of pigmentation, as
shown in dark skin, eyes, and hair.
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| Biology Dictionary |
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| | Definition: | | An abnormally large amount of the pigment melanin in an organism, contributing to abnormally dark skin, hair and/or eyes. Melanism can be hereditary -- passed on from parent to offspring. |
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