exaptation

n. a trait that, having evolved to serve one function, is later used for another. For example, feathers may have evolved as cooling or insulating mechanisms and later aided in flying. Also called spandrel. [proposed by U.S. paleontologist Stephen Jay Gould (1941–2002)]

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Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

between-dimension consistency

see cross-dimension attitude consistency.