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epigenetic

American  
[ep-i-juh-net-ik] / ˌɛp ɪ dʒəˈnɛt ɪk /

adjective

  1. Biology. of or relating to epigenesis, or the successive differentiation of undifferentiated cells in an embryo.

  2. Genetics. noting or pertaining to epigenetics, specifically, the process by which the expression of genetic information is modified on a molecular level without a change to the DNA sequence.

    the epigenetic inheritance of longevity.


epigenetic British  
/ ˌɛpɪdʒɪˈnɛtɪk /

adjective

  1. of or relating to epigenesis

  2. denoting processes by which heritable modifications in gene function occur without a change in the sequence of the DNA

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of epigenetic

epi- + genetic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Other disrupted genes showed epigenetic changes that may reflect the influence of environmental factors.

From Science Daily Aug. 25, 2026

According to the researchers, it is the first study to show arts engagement working at the epigenetic level.

From The Wall Street Journal Jul. 18, 2026

To evaluate aging, the researchers relied on several "epigenetic clocks."

From Science Daily Jul. 14, 2026

They also influence metabolism and can affect epigenetic processes that help regulate gene activity.

From Science Daily Jun. 6, 2026

Whatever one's judgment may be in particular cases, there can be no reason for disputing that in epigenetic or creative evolution there is, in a sense, loss as well as gain.

From Creative Intelligence Essays in the Pragmatic Attitude by Boyd H. Bode

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