replication

[ rep-li-key-shuhn ]

noun

1. a reply; answer.
2. a reply to an answer.
3. Law. the reply of the plaintiff or complainant to the defendant's plea or answer.
4. reverberation; echo.
5. a copy.
6. the act or process of replicating, especially for experimental purposes.
7. Genetics. semiconservative replication ( def ).

Other Words From

• non·rep·li·ca·tion noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of replication¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English replicacioun, from Middle French replication, from Latin replicātiōn- (stem of replicātiō ) “a rolling back,” equivalent to replicāt(us) + -iōn- suffix forming nouns; replicate, -ion

Example Sentences

Inefficiencies in science are important beyond replication.

From Slate

Kawaoka’s research shows “inefficient replication” of the virus in human corneal cells.

From Los Angeles Times

“For example, Aedes mosquitoes thrive in warmer climates and urban areas with standing water, which are increasingly common due to climate-driven flooding and inadequate infrastructure. Warmer temperatures speed up the virus replication within mosquitoes, increasing transmission rates and allowing these diseases to spread to new regions.”

From Salon

“At death, virus replication stops and putrefaction and heat begins to neutralize live virus,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

“Gov. Newsom has led the way in protecting people — and families — from A.I. replication without real consent.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• reproduction