clone

Definition

A living organism (originally a plant) produced asexually from a single ancestor, to which it is genetically identical.

Etymology

Coined (in botany) in 1903, based on Ancient Greek κλών (klṓn, “twig”). Figurative use from the 1970s.

Example Sentences

• "This new species is a clone of the mimosa plant."
• "The computer manufacturer produced IBM PC clones in the 1990s."
• "Once, on a confident whim, I approached the group of popular girls in an attempt to broaden my circle. Their ringleader took one glance at my new Aeropostale T-shirt and whispered to her clones, “Yeah, Aero's definitely out now.”"