genetic drift

noun

random changes in the frequency of alleles in a gene pool, usually of small populations.
Compare gene flow.

Origin of genetic drift

First recorded in 1955–60

Words nearby genetic drift

genetic counseling, genetic counselling, genetic disease, genetic disorder, genetic dominant, genetic drift, genetic engineering, genetic fallacy, genetic female, genetic fingerprint, genetic fingerprinting

Medical definitions for genetic drift

genetic drift

n.

Random fluctuations in the frequency of the appearance of a gene in a small isolated population, presumably owing to chance rather than natural selection. drift

Scientific definitions for genetic drift

genetic drift

Variation in the frequency of a gene in a small isolated population, thought to be due to random chance rather than natural selection.

Cultural definitions for genetic drift

genetic drift

A term that describes the random fluctuations in a gene pool over time. In large populations, the effects of genetic drift are negligible. (Compare natural selection.)