polymorphism

noun

1. 1

   The ability to assume different forms or shapes.

2. 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. 3

   The feature pertaining to the dynamic treatment of data elements based on their type, allowing for an instance of a method to have several definitions.

4. 4

   (type theory) 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. 5

   The ability of a solid material to exist in more than one form or crystal structure; pleomorphism.

6. 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.