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Splicing: meaning, definitions and examples

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splicing

 

[ ˈspaΙͺslΙͺΕ‹ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

genetics, film

Splicing refers to the process of joining two or more segments together. In genetics, it’s often about editing the RNA transcript to remove introns and join exons, while in film, it denotes the technique of connecting different segments of film to create a cohesive narrative.

Synonyms

interweaving, joining, merging

Examples of usage

  • The splicing of DNA is crucial in genetic engineering.
  • They performed splicing on the footage to improve continuity.
  • RNA splicing allows for a diverse range of proteins to be produced.

Etymology

The term 'splicing' originated from the Old English word 'splican', meaning 'to split or to interlace'. It dates back to the early 14th century, initially linked to connecting ropes or parts of ships. The term found significant application in the mid-20th century with advancements in genetics and filmmaking, enhancing its definition to include the intersection of biological segments and film footage. In genetics, 'splicing' specifically started to be used more broadly after the discovery of RNA processes in the 1970s. The concept of film splicing also evolved with the transition from physical film editing to digital techniques, yet the core idea of combining segments has remained consistent throughout its history.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,448, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.