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mutate

verb

/mjuːˈteɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of mutate

To undergo genetic change or modification, often resulting in a new or different form or characteristic.
"The bacteria can mutate to become resistant to antibiotics."

Detailed meaning of mutate

This can occur naturally through the process of evolution, or artificially through genetic engineering or other forms of manipulation. Mutations can be caused by a variety of factors, such as exposure to radiation, chemicals, or other environmental stressors. In some cases, mutations can lead to beneficial adaptations that improve an organism's chances of survival or reproductive success, while in other cases they can be harmful or even fatal. The term "mutate" can also be used in a more general sense to describe any process of change or transformation, whether this involves physical characteristics, behavioral patterns, or other aspects of identity or personality. Overall, the verb "mutate" connotes the idea of change or transformation, often in the context of genetic modification or evolutionary adaptation.

Example sentences containing mutate

1. The virus has the potential to mutate into a more dangerous strain.
2. Scientists are studying how certain genes mutate over time.
3. The bacteria can mutate and develop resistance to antibiotics.
4. Environmental factors can cause DNA to mutate.
5. Exposure to radiation can cause cells to mutate and lead to genetic disorders.
6. The virus can mutate rapidly, making it difficult to predict its behavior.

History and etymology of mutate

The verb 'mutate' originates from the Latin word 'mutatus,' which is the past participle of 'mutare,' meaning 'to change' or 'to alter.' 'Mutare' itself has ancient roots and is linked to the Indo-European root '*mei,' signifying 'to change' or 'to go.' In the context of genetics and biology, 'mutate' denotes the process of undergoing genetic change or modification, often leading to the emergence of a new or different form or characteristic. This etymology reflects the fundamental concept of change inherent in the term, highlighting the transformative nature of genetic mutations that drive evolution and diversity in living organisms.

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Further usage examples of mutate

1. Certain species of insects mutate in response to changes in their environment.
2. The DNA sequence can mutate over generations.
3. The virus has the ability to mutate and evade the immune system.
4. The species began to mutate in order to adapt to its new habitat.
5. The chemicals in the environment caused the cells to mutate and grow abnormally.
6. The genetic code can mutate during DNA replication.
7. Viruses can mutate rapidly, making them harder to combat.
8. Some plants mutate in response to environmental stress.
9. The virus can mutate and become more contagious.
10. Exposure to radiation can cause DNA to mutate.
11. Scientists study how genes mutate over generations.
12. Genetic mutations can occur spontaneously.
13. The bacteria have the potential to mutate and become resistant.
14. The virus began to mutate, posing a new threat.
15. Environmental factors can induce DNA to mutate.
16. Researchers monitor how viruses mutate to predict trends.
17. Certain chemicals can cause genes to mutate.
18. Evolution occurs as species mutate over time.
19. The virus can mutate, rendering vaccines less effective.
20. It's rare for a species to mutate significantly in one generation.
21. DNA can mutate due to copying errors during cell division.
22. Mutations can provide advantages in the struggle for survival.
23. Scientists track how influenza strains mutate each season.
24. Some organisms mutate to adapt to changing conditions.
25. Genetic diversity arises as genes mutate and recombine.
26. Viruses constantly mutate, making prevention challenging.