plural mutations
1
biology
: a change in the genes of a plant or animal that causes physical characteristics that are different from what is normal
The cat's short tail is the result of mutation.
The condition is caused by a genetic mutation.
The cat's short tail is the result of a mutation.
mutations in mice
2
: a new form of something that has changed
The building is a mutation of the original design.
Cite this Entry
“Mutation.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/mutation. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
