What does replication mean?
Replication means the making of another instance of something, often an exact or nearly exact copy. The word is especially important in biology, where DNA replication describes the molecular process by which genetic material is copied before a cell divides. It is also widely used in research to mean repeating a study or experiment to verify that its results can be reproduced. In everyday discussion, replication may sound formal or technical, but it conveys the idea of copying more precisely than duplication because it can suggest both repetition and fidelity to the original. Related phrases include DNA replication, viral replication, and replication of results. The term is useful whenever accuracy, confirmation, or the copying of an original is central to the discussion.
nounThe act of reproducing or making an exact or close copy of something, especially a biological molecule, cell, or result. In biology, replication is the process by which DNA is copied so that it can be passed to new cells.
- The act of reproducing something, or making an exact or close copy of it.
- The process by which DNA is copied before cell division.
- The copying of an experiment, study, or set of results to confirm its findings.
- The reproduction of a molecule or biological structure, such as a virus, within a host.
"The experiment produced consistent results, but replication by an independent laboratory would strengthen the findings."
"Researchers achieved complete replication of the genetic modification in a second strain of bacteria."
"The study's findings remain controversial because the original data have not been independently replicated."
Used when referring to separate instances of copying or when discussing multiple independently repeated studies.
"Several independent replications supported the original hypothesis."
Before a cell can divide, its DNA is carefully copied; that essential copying process is called replication.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does replication come from?
Replication comes from Latin replicare, meaning “to unfold” or “to repeat,” with the sense of a fold or a line being repeated. The English noun developed through French and was established in the early 17th century. Its relatives include replica and replicate, while duplicity ultimately comes from Latin duplicare, “to double,” sharing the same broader root.
Related word forms
How replication is actually used
In scientific and academic contexts, the word commonly refers to reproducing a result, phenomenon, or biological structure. In general usage, it can sound technical and is often less natural than copy or duplication.
Easily confused with replication
A replica is an individual copy or model, whereas replication is the process or act of producing copies.