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Chimeric: meaning, definitions and examples

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chimeric

 

[ kaɪˈmɪrɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

biological context

Chimeric refers to an organism, tissue, or cell that contains genetic material from more than one individual. It can occur naturally or be induced artificially in laboratories. This term is often used in genetics and biotechnology.

Synonyms

blended, composite, mixed

Examples of usage

  • Chimeric proteins are often used in research.
  • The chimeric mouse model is crucial for studying human diseases.
  • Chimeric viruses can be used in gene therapy.
Context #2 | Adjective

mythological context

In a mythological sense, chimeric refers to something that is fantastical or composed of various incongruent elements. This usage derives from the mythical Chimera, a creature that was part lion, part goat, and part serpent.

Synonyms

fantastical, imaginary, mythical

Examples of usage

  • The artist created a chimeric creature in the painting.
  • His chimeric ideas often baffled the audience.
  • They described the project as a chimeric blend of art and technology.

Translations

Translations of the word "chimeric" in other languages:

🇵🇹 quimérico

🇮🇳 चिमेरिक

🇩🇪 chimerisch

🇮🇩 chimeric

🇺🇦 химерний

🇵🇱 chimericzny

🇯🇵 キメラの

🇫🇷 chimérique

🇪🇸 quimérico

🇹🇷 şeytani

🇰🇷 키메라의

🇸🇦 خيالي

🇨🇿 chimérický

🇸🇰 chimerický

🇨🇳 嵌合的

🇸🇮 kimeričen

🇮🇸 kímérískur

🇰🇿 химерлі

🇬🇪 ქიმერიკული

🇦🇿 kimera

🇲🇽 quimérico

Word origin

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.

Word Frequency Rank

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