genetic mutation
noun
plural genetic mutations
: a permanent alteration in the nucleotide sequence of one or more genes or in the number or structure of one or more chromosomes
Lacking working copies of the p53 gene, cells can begin to divide without check, though several other genetic mutations are thought to be needed to foster a full-blown malignancy.—
Natalie Angier
Natalie AngierExamples of genetic mutation in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
This discrepancy surprised us because the genetic mutation that causes melanism occurs less frequently than the one that causes albinism/leucism.
—Elizabeth Carlen, Discover Magazine, 31 Oct. 2024
The cause behind developing multiple penises is generally believed to stem from genetic mutations affecting androgen receptors during development.
—Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 16 Oct. 2024
Some people with Carney complex do not have this genetic mutation.
—Kelly Burch Published, Verywell Health, 2 Oct. 2024
Not all genetic mutations are detected, and sometimes results are unclear, leaving you with variants of unknown significance (VUS) that don’t provide a clear answer.
—Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 3 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for genetic mutation 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Elizabeth Carlen, Discover Magazine, 31 Oct. 2024
The cause behind developing multiple penises is generally believed to stem from genetic mutations affecting androgen receptors during development.
—Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 16 Oct. 2024
Some people with Carney complex do not have this genetic mutation.
—Kelly Burch Published, Verywell Health, 2 Oct. 2024
Not all genetic mutations are detected, and sometimes results are unclear, leaving you with variants of unknown significance (VUS) that don’t provide a clear answer.
—Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 3 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for genetic mutation
Dictionary Entries Near genetic mutation
Cite this Entry
“Genetic mutation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genetic%20mutation. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
genetic mutation
noun
: a permanent alteration in the nucleotide sequence of one or more genes or in the number or structure of one or more chromosomes
Gaucher's disease results from one of many genetic mutations that can either slow or prevent the breakdown of certain glycolipids, which accumulate in storage vesicles and eventually kill cells.—Joseph Alper
Joseph AlperLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share