genetic load

noun

1. the extent to which a population deviates from the theoretically fittest genetic constitution.

n.

1. The aggregate of deleterious genes that are carried, mostly hidden, in the genome of a population and that may be transmitted to descendants.

1. The aggregate of deleterious genes that are carried, mostly hidden, in the genome of a population and may be transmitted to descendants. Inbreeding usually causes an increase in genetic load.