mutate
UK: mjuːˈteɪt | US: ˈmjuːteɪt
vi. to undergo or cause genetic mutation
vt. to change or alter in form or nature
The word "mutate" traces back to Latin mutare, which carried the core idea of transformation or exchange. This root appears in other English words like "mutable" (changeable) and "commute" (to exchange or travel regularly). The suffix "-ate" was added in Late Latin (mutatus), later adopted into Middle English as a verb-forming element. The biological sense emerged in the early 20th century with the study of genetic changes.
Viruses can mutate rapidly, making vaccines harder to develop.
The scientist observed how the bacteria began to mutate under radiation.
Some species mutate over generations to adapt to their environment.
The artist’s style mutated dramatically after her travels.
Exposure to chemicals may cause cells to mutate abnormally.