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polymorphism

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌpɒlɪˈmɔːfɪzəm/

KK: /pɑːlɪˈmɔːfɪzəm/

noun
Definition

The ability of a single type of organism or substance to exist in different forms or stages.


Example

In biology, polymorphism allows a species to adapt to various environments by having different physical forms.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard about polymorphism in biology?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it refers to how different forms can exist within the same species.
Sloth A
Exactly! It’s fascinating how some animals can display such variety.
Sloth B
I know, right? It really shows nature's creativity.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
variability
diversity
multiformity
Antonyms
uniformity
sameness
monomorphism
Root Explanation

Polymorphism → It is formed from "poly-" (meaning many) and "morphe" (meaning form or shape). The word describes the ability to take on many forms or shapes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') forms ('morphe') to remember that polymorphism refers to the ability to exist in multiple forms.

Visually Confused Words
pyromorphism
pleomorphism
pedomorphism
holomorphism
paedomorphism
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