What does polymorphism mean?
Polymorphism is a technical term for the existence of multiple forms within a single category. In biology, it describes inherited differences among members of a species or population, including variations in genes, physical traits, or behavior. Such variation can improve a population’s ability to survive changes in its environment. In computing, polymorphism means that a single name, function, or interface can be used with different underlying data types, allowing the program to select the correct behavior at runtime. The concept also applies in materials science, where one substance may form several distinct crystal structures under different conditions. Across these fields, polymorphism emphasizes the principle that an apparently uniform entity need not have a single uniform form. The word is especially useful in technical writing because it gives a concise name to a central feature of variation, type flexibility, and structural diversity.
nounIn biology, polymorphism is the occurrence of different forms or inherited variations within a species or population. In computing, it is a design principle in which one interface or name can operate on different underlying types, with the appropriate operation selected at runtime.
- The occurrence of different forms or inherited variations within a species or population.
- A computing principle in which a single interface or name can operate on different underlying types.
- The ability of a solid material to exist in more than one crystal or molecular form under different physical conditions.
"The software handles the different data types through polymorphism, allowing the same function call to work with each one."
"Genetic polymorphism allows a population to adapt as environmental conditions change."
"Through subtype polymorphism, the program can process objects from several classes through a shared interface."
The plural is grammatical but uncommon; the singular is normally preferred.
"The researchers identified several genetic polymorphisms associated with resistance to the disease."
From Greek words meaning “many” and “form,” polymorphism names the ability of a single name, interface, or species to take multiple forms.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does polymorphism come from?
Polymorphism was formed in English from elements derived from Greek polus, “many,” and morphē, “form,” with the suffix -ism. Its earliest scientific uses developed from the idea of a species or other entity assuming different forms. English cognates include polymorph, morphology, and metamorphosis, all of which draw on the same Greek root for form.
Related word forms
How polymorphism is actually used
The term is formal and technical, but standard in biology, computing, and the physical sciences. Outside technical contexts, a plain description such as “many different forms” may communicate the idea more directly.
Easily confused with polymorphism
Polymorphism refers to different forms or variants within a species, whereas polytypism specifically denotes the division of a taxon into genetically differentiated forms, often treated as subspecies.