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
- epigenetically adverb
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.
Chitwood has invested in a company working on epigenetic reprogramming, a process that aims to restore cells to a youthful state by pulling a specific combination of genetic levers.
From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026
For one thing, genes themselves aren’t changed by epigenetic experiences; rather, certain pre-existing genes are turned on or off.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026
The impact on epigenetic and biological aging appears to depend on the specific compound.
From Science Daily • Feb. 26, 2026
Women who reported higher levels of anxiety about growing older showed signs of faster epigenetic aging based on the DunedinPACE clock.
From Science Daily • Feb. 26, 2026
Now he explains candidly that he has been driven to the view that epigenetic development does not exist.
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.
