Hybrid

Hybrid is a term used to describe something produced by combining two or more different elements. It is commonly applied to biology, but it also refers to technologies, systems, and cultural forms that blend distinct parts.

Biology and agriculture: In biology, a hybrid is the offspring of two organisms from different species, subspecies, or varieties. Hybridization can occur naturally or be guided by humans in breeding programs. Plant hybrids are widely used to improve traits such as yield, vigor, or disease resistance. Hybrid vigor, or heterosis, often enhances performance in the first generation. Many animal hybrids exist, but fertility is frequently reduced; examples include certain cross-species livestock and other intergeneric crosses.

Genetics and evolution: Hybridization moves genes between populations (introgression) and can contribute to adaptation. In some cases, hybrids form the basis of a new species if they become reproductively isolated from parent lineages.

Technology and systems: In technology, hybrid describes blended approaches. A hybrid electric vehicle combines an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. In computing, a hybrid cloud mixes on-premises infrastructure with external cloud resources. In business and design, hybrid models fuse elements of different methods or products.

Culture and language: The term also appears in linguistics and arts to describe words, styles, or forms created by combining features from different languages or traditions.