Homonym: mutant (Altered)
A "mutant" refers to an organism that has undergone a change in its DNA, resulting in a new trait or characteristic. This change can occur naturally through processes like genetic mutation or can be induced by environmental factors such as radiation or chemicals. Mutants can be found in various forms of life, including plants, animals, and even bacteria.
In popular culture, the term "mutant" is often associated with fictional characters, such as those in the X-Men series, who possess extraordinary abilities due to their mutations. While these portrayals are imaginative, real-life mutants can play important roles in evolution and genetic research, helping scientists understand how traits are inherited and how species adapt over time.