What does reproductively mean?
Reproductively is an adverb formed from the adjective reproductive. It describes something done, observed, or occurring in relation to reproduction, particularly the biological production of offspring by organisms. It is especially common in scientific and environmental contexts: for example, a population may be described as reproductively viable if its members are able to produce offspring that survive. The adverb can also indicate that a process has a reproductive function or affects reproduction directly. Although the word follows standard English adverb formation with the suffix -ly, it sounds technical and is less common in general conversation than its adjective counterpart, reproductive. It is most useful when precision is needed in discussing fertility, species survival, reproduction, or the biological consequences of an environmental or physiological change.
adverbIn a manner or degree relating to reproduction, especially the biological process by which organisms produce offspring.
- In or with respect to reproduction, especially biological reproduction involving the production of offspring.
"The species remains reproductively viable in its altered habitat."
"The altered plants are reproductively viable and can produce viable seeds."
"Her findings suggest that the population declines reproductively under warmer conditions."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reproductively come from?
The word ultimately comes from Latin reproducere, formed from re-, meaning “again,” and producere, meaning “bring forth” or “produce.” Its meaning developed through English reproduce and the related adjective reproductive. The adverb reproductively was formed in the ordinary English way by adding -ly to reproductive.
Related word forms
How reproductively is actually used
This is a relatively formal and specialized adverb, most often used in biological, ecological, or medical contexts. In everyday discussion, a more direct expression is usually clearer.