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mutation

n.
US //mjuˈteɪʃən// UK //mjuːtˈeɪʃən// mu·ta·tion
  1. 1 genetic change (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Science

    a change in the genetic material of a living thing that can cause it to have different physical features.

    a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence that makes up a gene, such that the sequence differs from what is found in most people.

    Example

    The scientist explained that the butterfly's unusual colour was caused by a genetic mutation.

    Example

    Researchers identified a specific mutation in the protein-coding region that appears to grant the species a higher resistance to environmental toxins.
  2. 2 general change (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    the act or process of changing into a different form.

    the process of undergoing a significant change or transformation in form or nature.

    Example

    The mutation of the small village into a busy tourist town happened very quickly.

    Example

    The rapid mutation of social norms in the digital age has left many traditional institutions struggling to adapt their communication strategies.
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  1. 3 linguistic sound change (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    a change in the sound of a word, often the first letter, depending on the words around it.

    a change in a sound within a word, particularly an initial consonant, triggered by its morphological or syntactic environment.

    Example

    In the Welsh language, the first letter of a word often changes because of a mutation.

    Example

    The professor illustrated how initial consonant mutation in Celtic languages serves a vital grammatical function, indicating the relationship between nouns and their preceding particles.
  2. 4 transfer of property (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Formal Law

    the official process of changing the name of a property owner in government records.

    the recording of a transfer of title of an asset or property in a public register.

    Example

    You must apply for a mutation of the land records after you buy the house.

    Example

    The legal department confirmed that the mutation of the property title had been successfully registered with the municipal authorities following the inheritance settlement.
Origin

Late 14th century as Middle English mutacioun, from Latin mūtātiō, both directly and via Old French mutacion.

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