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genetic drift
noun
: random changes in gene frequency especially in small populations when leading to preservation or extinction of particular genes
Examples of genetic drift in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The answer could come down to an evolutionary process called genetic drift.
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Quanta Magazine, 18 Dec. 2024
In addition, some wild animals in zoos have been bred under human care and over time, might become susceptible to allergies through genetic drift.
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Jen McCaffery, Discover Magazine, 14 Nov. 2024
But genetic drift works to preserve mutations across generations.
—
Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 27 June 2024
And in small populations, genetic drift is more influential than many people realize.
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Quanta Magazine, 2 May 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1945, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near genetic drift
Cite this Entry
“Genetic drift.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genetic%20drift. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.
Medical Definition
genetic drift
noun
: random changes in gene frequency especially in small populations when leading to preservation or extinction of particular genes
More from Merriam-Webster on genetic drift
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about genetic drift
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