mu
ta
tion
Plural
mutations
1
(biology) a change in the structure of the genes of an individual that causes them to develop different physical features
- The fish exhibited a unique fin shape, which was later identified as a result of a genetic mutation.
- Scientists are studying the mutation responsible for giving certain plants drought resistance.
- Due to a mutation in his genes, the child was born with blue eyes, even though both parents had brown eyes.
Synonyms:
2
any kind of shift or transformation in characteristics or attributes
- The music genre has experienced various mutations over the years, incorporating new instruments and styles.
- Over decades, the town experienced a mutation from a quiet hamlet to a bustling city.
- His personality underwent a surprising mutation after his travels, making him more open-minded.
- The mutation of the software introduced several new features to improve user experience.
- His mutation in behavior made him more outgoing after years of isolation.
3
an organism whose traits differ from the typical form because of changes in its chromosomes
- The lab colony included a mutation of Drosophila with extra wings sprouting from its thorax.
- Botanists discovered a mutation of oak that produced bright golden leaves each autumn.
- Researchers tracked the spread of a mouse mutation that caused albinism across several generations.
- The aquarium's prized mutation of guppy displayed an unusually large, fan-shaped tail.
- A spontaneous mutation of yeast enabled it to ferment sugar more efficiently under stress.