Chimeric Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Science

• In genetics, a 'chimeric' organism has cells from two or more different zygotes, which can lead to unique traits or characteristics.
• Chimeric stem cells are used in research, potentially aiding in regenerative medicine by combining traits from different species.
• The term is also applied in biotechnology, where chimeric proteins are engineered to have functions from multiple proteins, expanding their use in therapies.

Art & Literature

• In literature, chimeric themes explore the blending of genres or ideas, often seen in magical realism where reality and fantasy coexist.
• Artworks sometimes evoke a chimeric quality by combining disparate styles or elements, challenging viewers to interpret them in multiple ways.
• Famous stories, like 'Frankenstein,' embody chimeric qualities through the merging of human and monster, raising questions about creation and humanity.

Pop Culture

• Chimeric creatures appear frequently in modern fantasy games, where they are depicted as powerful beings composed of various animal attributes.
• Movies like 'The Shape of Water' showcase chimeric love stories between humans and fantastical beings, blurring the lines of reality.
• Comics often feature chimeric superheroes or villains with merged powers, appealing to fans' imaginations and exploring identity.

Philosophy

• Philosophers discuss chimeric concepts in metaphysics, where ideas can overlap, leading to debates about the nature of reality and fantasy.
• In exploring identity, the idea of being chimeric can symbolize the multiplicity of human experiences, identities, and cultural influences.
• Chimeric theories challenge rigid boundaries within philosophical discussions, promoting a more fluid understanding of existence.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from 'chimera,' which refers to a fire-breathing monster from Greek mythology with parts from different animals.
• In ancient texts, the chimera was described as having a lion's head, a goat's body, and a serpent's tail, embodying the concept of being a mix of different creatures.
• The term evolved in the 19th century to describe imaginary or fantastical entities, expanding beyond just the mythical creature.

The word 'chimeric' is derived from the term 'chimera,' which has its roots in Greek mythology. The Chimera was a terrifying creature that had the body of a lion, a goat's head protruding from its back, and a tail that ended with a snake’s head. The word 'chimera' comes from the Greek word 'Chimaira,' which means 'she-goat.' Over time, the term has evolved in modern usage to describe biological phenomena, specifically in genetics where it pertains to organisms consisting of cells with different genetic compositions. The scientific use of 'chimeric' gained prominence in the late 20th century as the fields of genetics and biotechnology began to expand, leading to new methods in genetic research and therapies. Today, 'chimeric' encompasses various scientific, medical, and literary applications, reflecting its versatile and imaginative origins.

At rank #28,475, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 28475 chimeric
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