epigenetic
Americanadjective
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Biology. of or relating to epigenesis, or the successive differentiation of undifferentiated cells in an embryo.
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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.
adjective
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of or relating to epigenesis
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denoting processes by which heritable modifications in gene function occur without a change in the sequence of the DNA
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of epigenetic
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.
Children who carried epigenetic patterns associated with ASD were less likely to show signs of the condition if they acquired Lachnospira pectinoschiza during infancy.
From Science Daily • Jun. 2, 2026
The company’s scientific approach, called epigenetic reprogramming, works by altering DNA markings and dictating which genes a cell uses.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026
When the children reached 36 months of age, researchers assessed their neurodevelopment using a behavioral questionnaire and looked for connections between developmental outcomes, gut microbes, and epigenetic patterns.
From Science Daily • Jun. 2, 2026
However, scientists have already identified exceptions involving epigenetic mechanisms such as genomic imprinting.
From Science Daily • Jun. 1, 2026
In my theory two assumptions of totally contrasting nature are made: I assume a germplasm of high and specific organisation, and I assume that this is transformed into the adult product by epigenetic agencies.
From The Biological Problem of To-day Preformation Or Epigenesis? The Basis of a Theory of Organic Development by Hertwig, Oscar
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
