polymorphism
nounUK /ˌpɒlɪˈmɔːfɪzəm/
US /ˌpɑːliˈmɔːrfɪzəm/
Polymorphism is when the same thing can take many different shapes or forms.
In computer programming, polymorphism lets one function work with different types of data.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. In biology, the existence of multiple different forms of a species in the same population.
The polymorphism of the butterfly's wing colors helps it survive in different habitats.
3. In chemistry, the ability of a substance to exist in more than one crystal structure.
Calcium carbonate shows polymorphism, appearing as both calcite and aragonite.
4. In genetics, the occurrence of two or more distinct alleles at a single gene locus.
A common genetic polymorphism affects how people respond to certain medicines.