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Definition of polymorphism
: the quality or state of existing in or assuming different forms: such asa (1) : existence of a species in several forms independent of the variations of sex (2) : existence of a gene in several allelic forms; also : a variation in a specific DNA sequence (3) : existence of a molecule (such as an enzyme) in several forms in a single speciesb : the property of crystallizing in two or more forms with distinct structure
From the M-W Editors
Recent Examples of polymorphism from the Web
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This technique relies on datasets that compare single nucleotide polymorphisms—differences in DNA nucleotides that act as biological markers among individuals.
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Using about 50 different variations — single-nucleotide polymorphisms (otherwise known as SNPs) — researchers created a risk score.
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Abnormal changes in these base pairs, called single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs, might be the root causes of most noninfectious human diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and cystic fibrosis.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'polymorphism'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of polymorphism
1839
Medical Dictionary
polymorphism
playMedical Definition of polymorphism
: the quality or state of existing in or assuming different forms: asa (1): existence of a species in several forms independent of the variations of sex (2): existence of a gene in several allelic forms; also : a variation in a specific sequence of DNA (3): existence of a molecule (as an enzyme) in several forms in a single speciesb: the property of crystallizing in two or more forms with distinct structure
Learn More about polymorphism
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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about polymorphism
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