English · Science & Technology
mutation
/mjuːˈteɪ.ʃən/
[/mjuːˈteɪ.ʃən/]
genetic change
Advancednoun
Definition
A change in the DNA of a living thing that can affect how it looks or functions.
Example
A random mutation in the virus made it spread more easily between people.
A random mutation in the virus made it spread more easily between people.
Etymology
From Latin 'mutatio' (a change), from 'mutare' (to change).
How & Where It’s Used
Important in genetics, evolution, and the study of diseases.