genetic drift

noun

: random changes in gene frequency especially in small populations when leading to preservation or extinction of particular genes

Examples of genetic drift in a Sentence

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In addition, some wild animals in zoos have been bred under human care and over time, might become susceptible to allergies through genetic drift. Jen McCaffery, Discover Magazine, 14 Nov. 2024 But genetic drift works to preserve mutations across generations. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 27 June 2024 And in small populations, genetic drift is more influential than many people realize. Quanta Magazine, 2 May 2024 In large populations, the effects of genetic drift are minimal. Quanta Magazine, 2 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for genetic drift 

Word History

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of genetic drift was in 1945

Dictionary Entries Near genetic drift

Cite this Entry

“Genetic drift.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genetic%20drift. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

genetic drift

noun
: random changes in gene frequency especially in small populations when leading to preservation or extinction of particular genes

More from Merriam-Webster on genetic drift

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