| preformation | <biology> An old theory of the preexistence of germs. Cf. Embo<icir/tement. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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| preformation theory | Archaic theory that the embryo was fully formed in miniature within a gamete at the time of conception. See: homunculus. Synonym: emboitement, incasement theory. (05 Mar 2000) |