What does "epigenetics" mean?
The study of the processes involved in the genetic development of an organism, especially the activation and deactivation of genes.
Epigenetics
/ˌɛpɪd͡ʒəˈnɛtɪks/ noun
noun ·Rare ·Advanced level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: The study of the processes involved in the genetic development of an organism, especially the activation and deactivation of genes.
- Grammar: epigenetics is listed as noun.
- Usage evidence: Epigenetics deals with the regulation of genetic activity within a cell - which genes are switched on or off, and when it happens.
How to use "epigenetics"
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Meaning check
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Source and review context
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Before you rely on this definition
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Definition decision workflow
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Definitions
Noun
- 1 The study of the processes involved in the genetic development of an organism, especially the activation and deactivation of genes. uncountable
"Epigenetics deals with the regulation of genetic activity within a cell - which genes are switched on or off, and when it happens."
- 2 The study of heritable changes caused by the activation and deactivation of genes without any change in DNA sequence. uncountable
Example
"Epigenetics deals with the regulation of genetic activity within a cell - which genes are switched on or off, and when it happens."
Common questions
How do you use "epigenetics" in a sentence?
Epigenetics deals with the regulation of genetic activity within a cell - which genes are switched on or off, and when it happens.
How do you pronounce "epigenetics"?
Pronounced /ˌɛpɪd͡ʒəˈnɛtɪks/.
Etymology
Blend of epigenesis + genetics; coined by C. H. Waddington in 1942.