Meaning & Definition of word "Mutate"

Mutate

/mjuːˈteɪt/

verb:

  • 1. to change or cause to change in form or nature.
    • Example: The virus can mutate rapidly, making it difficult to develop effective vaccines.
  • 2. to undergo a change in genetic material.
    • Example: The bacteria began to mutate in response to the antibiotics.
  • 3. to change or alter something significantly.
    • Example: Over time, the original concept of the story mutated into something entirely different.

Etymology

From Latin 'mutare', meaning 'to change'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

mutate into:

To change into a different form or species.

mutate beyond recognition:

To change so much that the original form is no longer identifiable.

Related Words

mutation:

The process or results of changing or altering form, often in genetics.

mutant:

An organism that has undergone mutation, displaying different characteristics from its parents.

Slang Meanings of mutate

Meaning: To change drastically, often in a surprising or unconventional way.

Example Sentence: That band really mutated after their first album!

Meaning: To evolve or adapt quickly in a social or cultural context.

Example Sentence: The fashion trends mutate every season.