English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun

mutation

myoo-TAY-shuhn
noun
1
A change or alteration, especially a permanent change in an organism's genetic material.
"A single mutation in the gene can lead to the disorder."
"The company's strategy underwent a mutation after new leadership took over."

How to Use Mutation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA change, especially a genetic one passed on to offspring.

Common pairings
genetic mutation a random mutation

Word Forms

mutations plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “mutation” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

A single _____ in the gene can lead to the disorder.

Etymology

From Latin mutatio, "a changing," via Old French mutacion.

Rhymes for mutation

See all rhymes for mutation →
Definitions: FreeDict original editorial