Indel, short for insertion or deletion, refers to a mutation where a section of DNA is added or removed from a genome. There are several synonyms for this term in the scientific community, including insertions, deletions, and frameshift mutations. Insertions are instances where a segment of DNA is added to a genome, while deletions refer to a segment that is removed. Frameshift mutations result from either insertions or deletions, which shift the reading frame of the genome. These mutations can have significant impacts on the genetic code and can cause diseases in humans and other organisms. Understanding the synonyms for indel is crucial for proper communication among geneticists and other scientists.