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 lobster, a female weighing about 1½ pounds, has a rare genetic mutation that occurs in roughly one in 30 million lobsters. — Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 24 July 2026

In Burkina Faso so far, molecular biologists haven’t detected genetic mutations at the level that would make rapid diagnostic tests ineffective. — Christine Ro, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

This means that any genetic mutation is expressed immediately because there is no second copy of the gene to mask its effects. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 13 July 2026

The autopsy and other testing revealed that the Wahls have a genetic mutation that predisposes them to aortic ruptures. — Pj Green, Kansas City Star, 8 July 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