Word
epigenetic
Phoneticsepi·ge·net·ic
/ˌɛpədʒəˈnɛtɪk/
Definition
adj. relating to changes in how genes work without changing the actual DNA code. These changes can be influenced by things like diet, stress, or the environment.
adj. relating to the regulation of gene expression by mechanisms other than changes in the DNA sequence. Often involves chemical modifications to DNA or histone proteins that affect how genes are read by the cell.
Examples
“The study shows that epigenetic changes can be passed down through generations.”
“Researchers are investigating how epigenetic factors might explain why some people develop certain diseases even if they have no family history of them.”
“While the genetic code remains constant, epigenetic modifications allow for dynamic responses to environmental stimuli, effectively silencing or activating specific genes without altering the underlying nucleotide sequence.”
Examples
simple
“The study shows that epigenetic changes can be passed down through generations.”
contextual
“Researchers are investigating how epigenetic factors might explain why some people develop certain diseases even if they have no family history of them.”
complex
“While the genetic code remains constant, epigenetic modifications allow for dynamic responses to environmental stimuli, effectively silencing or activating specific genes without altering the underlying nucleotide sequence.”
Real-World Examples
“Other disrupted genes showed epigenetic changes that may reflect the influence of environmental factors.” “Maternal age effects may be controlled by epigenetic processes that change how genes are used rather than by mutations that alter the underlying DNA sequence.” Etymology
From epi- + genetic.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/epigenetic