vicariance

English

Etymology

See vicariant.

Noun

vicariance (plural vicariances)

1. (biology) The separation of a group of organisms by a geographic barrier, resulting in differentiation of the original group into new varieties or species
2. (geology) The geological event which produces such a barrier (volcano, earthquake, etc)
3. (psychology, colloquial) The act of experiencing an event by proxy through an empathic link with the person who is experiencing the event firsthand.