conjugation

(kŏnˌjə-gāˈshən)

1. a. The act of conjugating.
   b. The state of being conjugated.
2. Grammar
   a. The inflection of a particular verb.
   b. A presentation of the complete set of inflected forms of a verb.
   c. A class of verbs having similar inflected forms.
3. Biology
   a. The temporary union of two bacterial cells during which one cell transfers part or all of its genome to the other.
   b. A process of sexual reproduction in which ciliate protozoans of the same species temporarily couple and exchange genetic material.
   c. A process of sexual reproduction in certain algae and fungi in which temporary or permanent fusion occurs, resulting in the union of the male and female gametes.

Related Forms:

• conˌju·gaˈtion·al adjective

• conˌju·gaˈtion·al·ly adverb