Seminal

Seminal refers to something highly original and influential, serving as a foundation or basis for future developments. It signifies a work, idea, or event that has a significant impact and shapes the course of subsequent thought or action within a particular field or area. A seminal piece often introduces groundbreaking concepts, establishes new paradigms, or becomes a touchstone for further exploration. The term implies lasting importance and a considerable contribution to a body of knowledge or practice. Its long term consequences far outway the immediate impact.

Seminal meaning with examples

• Darwin's 'On the Origin of Species' is considered a seminal work in evolutionary biology, revolutionizing our understanding of the natural world and profoundly impacting scientific thought for generations to come, even up to today, and shaping all medical advancements.
• The invention of the printing press by Gutenberg was a seminal moment in history, democratizing access to information and paving the way for the Renaissance, making it cheaper and easier for information to be spread to all.
• Watson and Crick's discovery of the structure of DNA was seminal to modern genetics, providing a framework for understanding heredity and leading to breakthroughs in medicine, which is critical to new medical advancements.
• Marshall McLuhan's 'Understanding Media' is a seminal text in media studies, introducing concepts like the 'global village' and shaping our understanding of the impact of technology on society, and becoming an important framework.