mutation
6 synonyms for mutation, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A change or alteration, especially a permanent change in an organism's genetic material.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
genetic change
How to use mutation
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
genetic mutation
a random mutation
Etymology
From Latin mutatio, "a changing," via Old French mutacion.
Full origin of mutation →Frequently asked questions
What does “mutation” mean?
The word “mutation” means a change or alteration, especially a permanent change in an organism's genetic material. In plain terms, a change, especially a genetic one passed on to offspring.
How do you pronounce “mutation”?
“Mutation” is pronounced myoo-TAY-shuhn (/mjuˈteɪʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “mutation” in a sentence?
Here is “mutation” used in a sentence: “A single mutation in the gene can lead to the disorder.”
What part of speech is “mutation”?
“Mutation” is a noun.
Where does the word “mutation” come from?
The word “mutation” comes from Latin. From Latin mutatio, "a changing," via Old French mutacion.
Is “mutation” a common word?
“Mutation” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between mutation and mutant?
Mutation refers to the change or alteration itself, especially a permanent change in an organism's genetic material, while a mutant is the organism or thing that results from that change. Mutation is the process or event; mutant is the outcome.
Is a mutation always genetic?
While mutation most commonly refers to a permanent change in an organism's genetic material, the word can also describe any significant change or alteration more broadly, such as a mutation in a system, idea, or process outside biology.
