mutagen

[ myoo-tuh-juhn, -jen ]

noun

1. a substance or preparation capable of inducing mutation.

mutagen

/ ˌmjuːtəˈdʒɛnɪk; ˈmjuːtədʒən /

noun

1. a substance or agent that can induce genetic mutation

mutagen

1. Something that causes mutations in living things. Mutagens include chemicals, such as drugs or toxins , and radiation .

Derived Forms

• ˌmutagenˈicity, noun
• mutagenic, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of mutagen¹

First recorded in 1945–50; muta(tion) + -gen

Word History and Origins

Origin of mutagen¹

C20: from mutation + -gen

Related Words

• poison
• toxin