Genetic engineering

Pronunciation
/JEH-NET-i-k en-GINEER-ing/
Category
Technique

Definition

The direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology. This involves altering the genetic makeup of an organism by introducing, deleting, or modifying genes to introduce new traits or eliminate existing ones.

Etymology

From the Greek 'genos', meaning 'family' or 'kind', and 'ingenium', meaning 'intellect' or 'invention'.

Example

Genetic engineering has been used to create crops that are resistant to pests.

Related Terms

  • Genetically modified organism (GMO)
  • Recombinant DNA

Usage Notes

Genetic engineering is a complex and rapidly evolving field with ethical considerations.