To undergo change or transformation, especially at a fundamental level; to alter in form, structure, or character. In biology, refers to genetic changes that can be passed to offspring.
From Latin 'mutatus' (changed), past participle of 'mutare' (to change). The biological sense developed in the early 20th century with advances in genetics, while the general sense of fundamental change has been present since the 16th century.
Mutations aren't just random chaos - they're evolution's way of experimenting with new possibilities, and while most fail, the few successful ones can transform entire species and ecosystems over time!
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