self-replicating

American  

[self-rep-li-key-ting, self-] / ˈsɛlfˈrɛp lɪˌkeɪ tɪŋ, ˌsɛlf- /

adjective

1. reproducing itself by its own power or inherent nature.

   self-replicating organisms.

2. Genetics. making an exact copy or copies of itself, as a strand of DNA.

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Other Word Forms

• self-replication noun

Etymology

Origin of self-replicating

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

It goes on, and on, and on, self-replicating in the infinite scroll.

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

But mirror bacteria, which would be living organisms capable of self-replicating, not just little bits of protein, are what Kay and his fellow scientists are concerned about.

From Salon • Jan. 18, 2025

Curiously, of the 4.9 billion reactions generated, only hundreds of reaction cycles could be called "self-replicating," which means that the molecules produce additional copies of themselves.

From Science Daily • Jan. 24, 2024

The device uses self-replicating microorganisms to turn scraps into compost.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 6, 2023

I deposited Laleh in the kitchen with Mamou, who tried to feed Sohrab more Nowruz leftovers—it seemed they were self-replicating, and we might never run out—before we left again.

From "Darius the Great Is Not Okay" by Adib Khorram