polymorphism

noun6

1. •
   The ability to assume different forms or shapes.
2. •
   The coexistence, in the same locality, of two or more distinct forms independent of sex, not connected by intermediate gradations, but produced from common parents.
3. •
   A feature pertaining to the dynamic treatment of data elements based on their type, allowing for a method to have several definitions.
4. •
   The property of certain typed formal systems of allowing for the use of type variables and binders/quantifiers over those type variables; likewise, the property of certain expressions (within such typed formal systems) of making use of at least one such typed variable.
5. •
   The ability of a solid material to exist in more than one form or crystal structure; pleomorphism.
6. •
   The regular existence of two or more different genotypes within a given species or population; also, variability of amino acid sequences within a gene's protein.

   • Since 1990 they have found an entirely new role: they promise understanding of how and why our genes are all so different. They hold the key to human polymorphism. — 1999