Definition of "Darwinian"

Senses relating to Charles and Erasmus Darwin.

1. Of or pertaining to the scientific views advanced by the English biologist, geologist, and naturalist Charles Darwin, especially his theory that living organisms evolve through the natural selection of inherited variations that increase organisms' ability to compete, survive, and reproduce.  examples

2. (by extension) Of or pertaining to Darwinism, which includes the theories of Charles Darwin and other scientists.  quotations  examples

   Quotations

   • The Darwinian movement has made no difference to mankind, except that, instead of talking unphilosophically about philosophy, they now talk unscientifically about science.

     1904 July 9 and 16, Gilbert K[eith] Chesterton, “The Eccentric Seclusion of the Old Lady”, in The Club of Queer Trades, New York, N.Y., London: Harper & Brothers Publishers, published April 1905, page 241

3. (by extension) Competitive, especially in a ruthless manner.  examples

4. (by extension) Exhibiting an ability to adapt or develop in order to survive; adaptable.  examples

5. (chiefly historical) Of or pertaining to the philosophical and scientific views, or poetic style, of the natural philosopher, physiologist, and poet Erasmus Darwin.

Of or pertaining to Darwin, the capital city of the Northern Territory, Australia.  examples

Senses relating to Charles and Erasmus Darwin.

1. An adherent of Charles Darwin's theory of the origin of species, or of Darwinism.  examples

2. (obsolete, rare) An adherent of the philosophical and scientific views, or poetic style, of Erasmus Darwin.

A native or resident of Darwin in the Northern Territory, Australia.  examples