A seminal work [semen = seed (from the Latin seminalis)] is a work from which other works come--it is an engendering work which is so important in its ideas or technique that other people take these up and create new works too.
For example, Darwin's 1859 Origin of Species is a seminal work. Applications of evolutionary theory in art, literature, anthropology, and many other fields began to multiply after 1859 and continue to do so today. So this book was seminal.
A seminal work is related to, but should not be confused with a Magnum opus, which can also refer to the greatest work of a single individual (whether seminal or not). Origin of Species is considered Darwin's magnum opus and happens to be a seminal work too. Picasso's Demoiselles d'Avignon may be described truly as a seminal work--for it is considered the beginning point of Cubism. But Picasso's Guernica is considered by many his magnum opus -- his largest or greatest work. Magnum opus, from the Latin meaning great work, refers to the best or most renowned achievement of an author, artist, or composer. ...
A seminalwork is a work from which other works grow.
The term usually refers to an intellectual or artistic achievement whose ideas and techniques have been adopted or responded to in later works by other people, either in the same field or in the general culture.
Seminalwork should not be confused with magnum opus, which refers to the greatest work of a single individual, and not necessarily to that which has inspired the most work by others.
Their work promoted the expansion of the social work role in the hospital and the inclusion of the social perspective as a regular part of the medical treatment plan, for instance they began what we know today as "rounds".
Her work and expertise became recognized beyond the department and the hospital and was implemented in the broader field of medical social work.
Clark's expertise was in outpatient psychiatric social work, and she led the department during an era of sweeping social reform.
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