mRNA

noun

ˈem-ˈär-ˈen-ˈā How to pronounce mRNA (audio)
plural mRNAs
: messenger rna
Microarrays that identify thousands of active genes at a time are now a standard tool for biologists. They detect the mRNAs produced by active genes.—New Scientist

Examples of mRNA in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The new mRNA flu vaccine is also an option, as it was found in one study to be 27% more effective at protecting against illnesses in older adults than a standard shot. — Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2026 Applying the process to neurons taken from mice, the researchers found that although the mRNA strands encoding tau proteins were found throughout the cell, they were only read inside the dendrites – and not the axons. — Mike McRae 03, New Atlas, 3 Sep. 2026 For the first time this year, people ages 50 and older will be able to get a new kind of flu shot that uses the same mRNA technology as the COVID vaccines. — Rob Stein, NPR, 2 Sep. 2026 There’s a new choice this year for people ages 50 and older, the first flu vaccine made with the same mRNA technology that was key to ending the COVID-19 pandemic. — ABC News, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mRNA

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mRNA was in 1961

Browse Nearby Words

mrkr
mRNA
mrng
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Cite this Entry

“MRNA.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mRNA. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

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