Polymorphism

Last updated October 14, 2025

Polymorphism, polymorphic, polymorph, polymorphous, or polymorphy may refer to:

Computing

Polymorphism (computer science), the ability in programming to present the same programming interface for differing underlying forms
Ad hoc polymorphism, applying polymorphic functions to arguments of different types
Parametric polymorphism, abstracts types, so that multiple can be used with a single implementation
- Bounded quantification, restricts type parameters to a range of subtypes
Subtyping, different classes related by some common superclass can be used in place of that superclass
Row polymorphism, uses structural subtyping to allow polymorphism over records
Polymorphic code, self-modifying program code designed to defeat anti-virus programs or reverse engineering

Chromosomal polymorphism, a condition where one species contains members with varying chromosome counts or shapes
Cell polymorphism, variability in size of cells or nuclei
Gene polymorphism, the existence of more than one allele at a gene's locus within a population
Lipid polymorphism, the property of amphiphiles that gives rise to various aggregations of lipids
Polymorphic, a wave pattern seen on an electrocardiogram; see QRS complex
Polymorphism (biology), the occurrence of more than one form in the same population of a species
Polymorphism (RLFP), a technique that exploits variations in homologous DNA sequences

Polymorphism (materials science), the existence of a solid material in two or more crystal structures, known as polymorphs
Polymorph, a marketing name for polycaprolactone, a type of thermoplastic which fuses at 60 °C

Polymorph, a shapeshifting being in:
- "Polymorph" (Red Dwarf), third episode of series III of the science fiction sitcom
- "Emohawk: Polymorph II", fourth episode of series VI of the science fiction sitcom
- Polymorph (novel), a 1997 cyberpunk novel by Scott Westerfeld
Polymorph, a magical spell in many fantasy role-playing games that transforms a target into one of many different creatures for a period of time