genetic engineering

[juh-net-ik en-juh-neer-ing] / dʒəˈnɛt ɪk ˌɛn dʒəˈnɪər ɪŋ /

NOUN

alteration of genetic material

Synonyms

WEAK

DNA fingerprinting GM biogenetics genetic fingerprinting genetic modification recombinant DNA technology

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Probably we’ll be a million species before long,” he said, suggesting that genetic engineering of human beings would enable colonization of the solar system.

From Slate • Dec. 9, 2025

If he thought his return to the laboratory would be a placid coda to his career, he was soon proved wrong, by yet another advance in genetic engineering, this one called CRISPR.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 8, 2025

It announced that it used "deft genetic engineering and ancient DNA "to breed three dire wolf puppies and to "de-extinct" the species.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2025

Recent advances in genetic engineering have allowed researchers to tweak the genes of the animal organs to make them more compatible with their recipients.

From New York Times • May 12, 2024

Since there were no laws limiting genetic engineering, Rifkin regularly sued to stop it using any existing laws that might apply.

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot