Definition

The condition of changing or mutating very quickly and frequently.

Example

The hypermutability of the virus makes it difficult to create an effective vaccine.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new study on viruses?

Yeah, I read something about their hypermutability affecting how we treat infections.

Exactly! It's crazy how quickly they can change.

Right? It definitely makes developing vaccines more challenging.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypermutability is formed from "hyper-" (meaning over or excessive) and "mutabilitas" (from Latin "mutabilis", meaning changeable). The word describes the quality of being excessively changeable or subject to rapid changes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hyper-' meaning excessive and 'mutability' relating to change — this helps you remember that hypermutability refers to an excessive ability to change.

Visually Confused Words