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polymorphy

polymorphy

9.9
The state of having many different forms or shapes
  • noun
  • /ˌpɒlɪˈmɔːrfi/
translation icon : polimorfismo
  • The polymorphy of the species allows it to adapt to various environments.

Examples

  • Biologists study polymorphy to understand how species adapt to different environments.

  • The architecture of the city is notable for its polymorphy, blending old and new designs.

  • The artist's work displayed remarkable polymorphy in its variety of styles.

  • Many organisms exhibit polymorphy in response to environmental changes.

  • Biologists study polymorphy to understand how different species can adapt to diverse environments.

  • The architecture of the city reflects its polymorphy, showcasing a blend of classical and modern styles.

  • Many organisms exhibit polymorphy, demonstrating their ability to survive in varying conditions.

Synonyms

polymorphism
vspolymorphy
  • Specialized
6 9.6

When members of a group of living things have different forms because of differences in their genes

is broader, describing many forms in any context rather than only biology
multiformity
vspolymorphy
7.7

A situation where something has many different forms or types

is the identical sense presented using a different term
allotropy
vspolymorphy
  • Specialized
9.9

A case when an element exists in two or more different physical forms

is more general, applying to many forms across all contexts not only elements

How Variable

polymorphy
9.9
diversity
348 3.5
variability
29 5.7
uniformity
  • Specialized
18 4.6

Surface Forms

polymorphy singular
polymorphies plural

Morphology

polymorphy = polymorph (transparent) = poly + morph + y

This sense closely matches the literal meaning of poly- + morph + -y, namely 'many forms'.

Etymology

Polymorphy comes from Greek parts poly 'many' and morph 'shape', just like in polygon and metamorphosis. So polymorphy describes the quality of having 'many shapes' or styles, for example in art or in buildings that show different forms.