# cloning

/ˈkɫoʊnɪŋ/ (US) · /klˈəʊnɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cloning
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the process of making an exact copy of a living thing, like a plant or an animal. Scientists do this by using the original creature's DNA.

For teachers: the process of producing genetically identical individuals of an organism either naturally or artificially. In a laboratory context, it involves replicating biological material such as DNA fragments, cells, or whole organisms.

## Examples

- Scientists are studying the cloning of endangered species.
- The ethical debate surrounding human cloning has led many countries to pass strict laws against the practice.
- While therapeutic cloning aims to create stem cells for medical treatment, reproductive cloning remains a highly controversial subject due to its profound social and biological implications.

## Usage notes

- Often functions as a gerund; when used in a technical sense, it typically does not take a plural form.

---

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.