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

Examples of genetic mutation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Most of the 8 million people globally who have sickle-cell disease share the same genetic mutation; treating rare disorders will require dealing with many different mutations, even within the same disease. —Nancy Walecki, The Atlantic, 8 Dec. 2025

Piebald is different from Albinism, a genetic mutation that causes an animal to appear all white with pink eyes. —Kelli Bender, PEOPLE, 3 Dec. 2025

Additionally, triple-negative breast cancer disproportionately affects younger women, Black women and those with certain genetic mutations. —Gqlshare, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Dec. 2025

This deviation in coloration is caused by a genetic mutation. —Steve Bender, Southern Living, 27 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for genetic mutation

• acclimatisation
• acclimatization
• acidification
• actualization
• annualization
• autocorrelation
• autoregulation
• beatification
• beneficiation
• biodegradation
• biotransformation
• bureaucratization

Medical 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