# recombination

/ɹiˌkɑmbɪˈneɪʃən/ (US) · /ɹˌiːkˌɒmbɪnˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/recombination
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the process where different parts of a molecule or a set of genes are joined together to form a new combination. This often happens in nature to create new varieties of plants or animals.

For teachers: the process of combining different components or genetic sequences to form a new entity. In chemistry, it refers to the formation of a new molecule by the union of two or more atoms or radicals.

## Examples

- The recombination of genetic material leads to new traits in offspring.
- Scientists observed the recombination of the virus's proteins, which allowed it to adapt to a new host.
- The successful recombination of the synthetic DNA fragments required precise temperature control and specific enzymes to ensure the correct sequence was assembled without errors.

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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.