mutate
verb (used with object)
to change; alter.
has mutated
-
present perfectof mutate (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Experts believe the strain has mutated to “more likely evade” immunity from the current vaccine.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 15, 2026
The strain that is circulating is H3N2, which tends to cause more severe illness, and it has mutated somewhat with fears people may have less immunity.
From BBC ● Dec. 15, 2025
Since the original virus that causes COVID, SARS-CoV-2, emerged in March 2020, it has mutated into dozens of variants, but most don't differ too much from the "parents" they evolved from.
From Salon ● Aug. 20, 2023
Cauterucci takes a close look at how the zeitgeist that once incentivized rainbow-washing has mutated.
From Slate ● Jun. 15, 2023
Others hold that, under no circumstances, should a boy or girl be taught to sing before the age of puberty, before the voice has mutated.
From The Voice Its Production, Care and Preservation by Frank E. Miller
