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

Tonegawa showed that our adaptive immune system is reliant on genetic mutation. —Jerome Groopman, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2026

Mastectomies intended to prevent breast cancer have become more common among women with elevated risks, including genetic mutations and a family history of the disease. —Brett Kelman, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026

There are more advanced methods, such as whole genome sequencing, that can detect some rare genetic mutations among twins, but researchers say these techniques are complex, expensive and not commonly used in legal cases. —Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 1 Apr. 2026

Researchers have found that approximately 10% of patients have a genetic mutation. —Chase Hunter, Mercury News, 23 Mar. 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