The term "inbred" refers to organisms, especially animals or plants, that have descended from a limited number of ancestors and have mated within a closely related group. This can lead to a reduced genetic diversity, which can result in various negative effects, such as health problems or reduced ability to adapt to environmental changes. The term is also used in a figurative sense to describe ideas, practices, or cultures that are overly narrow or lacking in variety.
The word "inbred" originates from the prefix "in-" meaning "in" or "within" and the word "bred," which is the past participle of "breed," meaning to reproduce or raise. This lexical formation emphasizes breeding happening within a confined or limited group.