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Mutate: meaning, definitions and examples

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mutate

 

[ mjuːˈteɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

biological change

To mutate means to change in form or nature. In a biological context, it typically refers to a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence that makes up a gene. This can happen due to various factors, including environmental influences, errors during DNA replication, or exposure to certain chemicals. Mutations can lead to changes in physical traits or behavior of organisms. While some mutations are harmful or neutral, others can provide beneficial adaptations to the organism.

Synonyms

alter, change, modify, transform

Examples of usage

  • Bacteria can mutate rapidly to develop antibiotic resistance.
  • The virus mutated, making it more infectious.
  • Scientists study how genes mutate over generations.
  • The plant species has mutated to survive in extreme conditions.

Translations

Translations of the word "mutate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mutar

🇮🇳 परिवर्तन करना

🇩🇪 mutieren

🇮🇩 berubah

🇺🇦 змінювати

🇵🇱 mutować

🇯🇵 変異する

🇫🇷 muter

🇪🇸 mutar

🇹🇷 mutasyona uğramak

🇰🇷 변이하다

🇸🇦 تغيير

🇨🇿 mutovat

🇸🇰 mutovať

🇨🇳 变异

🇸🇮 mutirati

🇮🇸 breyta

🇰🇿 мутация

🇬🇪 მუტაცია

🇦🇿 mutasiya

🇲🇽 mutar

Etymology

The word 'mutate' comes from the Latin 'mutare', which means 'to change'. This word has been part of the English lexicon since it was first recorded in the late 15th century. Initially, the term was used in broader contexts to describe changes in state or form. Its association with biology became more prominent in the 20th century, particularly with the rise of genetics and microbiology. As scientists began to understand the mechanisms of heredity, the concept of mutation gained importance in explaining evolution and variability in species. Today, 'mutate' is commonly used in discussions surrounding genetic research, disease evolution, and even in popular culture contexts, where it may refer to changes in abilities or characteristics.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,758 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.