# chimera

/tʃɪˈmɛɹə/ (US) · /kaɪmˈiəɹɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/chimera
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a creature or object that is made by combining parts from different things. In modern science, it refers to an animal that has parts from two or more different species.

For teachers: a creature or object composed of parts from different sources. In modern biological contexts, it refers to an organism containing cells or tissues from two or more genetically distinct sources.

## Examples

- The scientist created a chimera by combining DNA from two different animals.
- In ancient mythology, the chimera was a monstrous creature with the body of a lion, the head of a goat, and the tail of a serpent.
- The geneticist's work on the chimera challenged traditional definitions of species boundaries, as the hybrid organism exhibited traits from both parent lineages.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.