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

The team reconstructed an evolutionary history of the Leucosphyrus group using DNA, genetic mutation estimates and computer models. —Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 11 Mar. 2026

The extra ears are the result of a rare genetic mutation. —Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 5 Mar. 2026

If this draft becomes policy, once a therapy is approved, future patients with different genetic mutations may be able to receive individualized versions of that therapy under the same original approval. —Judy Stecker, STAT, 27 Feb. 2026

Animal studies showed that immune cells sometimes produced antibodies that acted like those rare genetic mutations to prevent folate in the bloodstream from reaching the brain. —Jon Hamilton, NPR, 22 Jan. 2026

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