revertant
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /rɪˈvɜːtənt/
KK: /rɪˈvɜrtənt/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that has returned to a previous state or form, often due to a change or mutation.
Example
The revertant cells showed characteristics similar to the original type after the mutation.
Conversation
Did you hear about the experiment with the revertant cells?
Yeah, I read about it! It’s fascinating how they can change back to their original state.
I wonder how they manage to create a revertant mutant so effectively.
It must be some advanced technique; science is really amazing these days!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
mutant
changed
altered
Antonyms
stable
fixed
constant
noun
Definition
A type of organism or cell that has returned to a previous state or regained a lost ability, often through mutation.
Example
The scientist studied the revertant to understand how it regained its original function.
Conversation
Have you heard about the new study on revertants?
No, I haven't! What’s interesting about them?
They found that some mutant strains can actually regain their original traits.
Root Explanation
Revertant is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "vertere" (meaning to turn). The word describes something that turns back or returns to a previous state.
Memory Tip
Think of something that 'turns back' ('vertere') again ('re-') — that's why revertant means returning to a previous state.
Visually Confused Words
perseverant