# mutated

/ˈmjuˌteɪtɪd/ (US) · /mjuːtˈeɪtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mutated
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

changed into a new or different form because of a shift in its genetic structure. You use this to describe living things or viruses that have developed new traits.

For teachers: having undergone a permanent alteration in genetic sequence. Often used to describe organisms or viruses that have evolved new characteristics through biological change.

## Examples

- The mutated virus spreads more quickly than the original one.
- Scientists identified a mutated strain of the crop that is naturally resistant to common pests.
- In the wake of the environmental disaster, researchers documented several mutated species of amphibians that exhibited unusual physical traits not seen in previous generations.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The virus was mutate" but "The virus was mutated" — When describing the state of having changed, the past participle form 'mutated' must be used as an adjective.

## Usage notes

- Often follows a linking verb or precedes a noun as a participial adjective.

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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.