Mutation
/mjuːˈteɪʃən/
Definitions
2 meaningsA change in the structure of a gene, resulting in a variant form that may be transmitted to subsequent generations, caused by the alteration of single base units in DNA, or the deletion, insertion, or rearrangement of larger sections of genes or chromosomes.
/mjuːˈteɪʃən/
A change in the genetic material of a cell or organism.
The disease was caused by a rare genetic mutation.
💡 Simply: Imagine your favorite video game character gets a sudden upgrade. That's kind of like a mutation in the real world! It's a sudden change in a living thing, often caused by a tiny change in their 'instruction manual' (genes).
👶 For kids: A mutation is like when a toy changes a little bit – maybe it gets a new color or a new power.
More Examples
Scientists are researching mutations to understand their impact on evolution.
The mutation allowed the bacteria to become resistant to the antibiotic.
How It's Used
"The scientists are studying the DNA sequence to see if it is the cause of the mutation."
"Some mutations can be harmful, while others are neutral or even beneficial."
The act or process of changing; alteration or modification; a change in form, nature, or substance.
/mjuːˈteɪʃən/
The act or process of changing; alteration or modification.
The unexpected political mutation surprised many analysts.
💡 Simply: Imagine a recipe that's changed to make it even tastier. Or a plot twist in a book. That's another way to describe a mutation – a big change!
👶 For kids: A mutation is like a change in something, like when a caterpillar turns into a butterfly.
More Examples
The company underwent a significant mutation in its business model.
There's a mutation of the laws in the coming year
How It's Used
"The new policy represents a mutation of the company's original goals."
"The company's strategic mutation was to adapt to the new market trend."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
mutation rate
The frequency with which mutations occur in a population.
"The study measured the mutation rate of the virus."
From Latin *mutatio*, meaning 'a change' or 'a transformation,' derived from the verb *mutare*, 'to change.' The term has been used in biology since the early 20th century to describe changes in genes.
The concept of mutation developed gradually through the early 20th century as genetics progressed. Early usage often referred to visible changes in organisms, and later, more specifically to changes at the gene level.
Memory tip
Think of a *mutation* as a *mutation* in a comic book superhero's powers - a sudden change!
Word Origin
"to change"