Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition


Pleomorphism

Pleˊo-mor′phism

,
Noun.
[Gr. [GREEK] more +
μορφή
form.]
1.
(Crystallog.)
The property of crystallizing under two or more distinct fundamental forms, including dimorphism and trimorphism.
2.
(Biol.)
The theory that the various genera of bacteria are phases or variations of growth of a number of Protean species, each of which may exhibit, according to undetermined conditions, all or some of the forms characteristic of the different genera and species.

Definition 2024


pleomorphism

pleomorphism

English

Noun

pleomorphism (countable and uncountable, plural pleomorphisms)

  1. (biology) the occurrence of multiple structural forms during the life cycle of an organism
  2. (chemistry) polymorphism