genetically modified organism
noun
plural genetically modified organisms
1
: a plant, animal, or microorganism whose DNA has been altered artificially through the insertion, deletion, or modification of one or more genes in order to express (see express entry 1 sense 4) or suppress (see suppress sense 6) a targeted trait or traits : an organism manipulated by genetic modification for the purpose of changing one or more phenotypic characteristics
Genetic engineering is one way to alter a rice plant's sensitivity to herbicides. This involves adding a gene for herbicide resistance from another organism. The resulting plant is termed a genetically modified organism … and any subsequent varieties developed from this plant that possess the introduced trait are GMOs as well.—Timothy P. Croughan
The first release of genetically modified mosquitoes in the United States began this week in the Florida Keys—the culmination of a decade-long effort by local mosquito control authorities to see if a genetically modified organism is a viable alternative to spraying insecticides in the region.—Sandee LaMotte
called also GMO
2
: something (such as a fruit) that is the product of an organism and especially a plant that has undergone genetic modification
It has been a pink pineapple summer in Omaha. The unusual blushing fruit—grown only in Costa Rica—has made its way to grocery stores. … It gets the pink color from lycopene, making the pineapple a genetically modified organism …—Betsie Freeman
called also GMO
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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