| a special type of natural selection in which the sexes acquire distinct forms either because the members of one sex choose mates with particular features or because in the competition for mates among the members of one sex only those with certain traits succeed. |
| sexual selection n. Selection driven by the competition for mates, considered an adjunct to natural selection. |
In evolution, the selection of a mate based on secondary sex characteristics. Sexual selection is thought to lead distinct differences in the appearance of the two sexes within a species. For example, the tail of the male peacock may be the result of sexual selection.
sexual selection n.
Selection that is driven by the competition for mates and that is considered an adjunct to natural selection.