Biological

Definition

Biological pertains to the study of living organisms, their processes, and relationships with each other and their environment. It is used to describe anything related to life sciences, physiology, and genetics, including family relations by birth.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌbaɪəˈlɑːdʒɪkəl/
• Respelling: bye-uh-LOJ-ik-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌbaɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl/
• Respelling: bye-uh-LOJ-ik-uhl

Etymology

The word "biological" comes from the Greek "bios," meaning "life," combined with the suffix "-logical," indicating a branch of knowledge. The term entered the English language in the 19th century and is directly related to the study of biology.

Derivatives

• Biology (noun)
• Biologically (adverb)
• Biologist (noun)
• Biologic (adjective)
• Biometrics (noun)

Synonyms

• Natural
• Genetic
• Organic

Antonyms

• Synthetic
• Artificial
• Cultural

Usage

The adjective "biological" is commonly used in science and medicine, as well as in everyday language. In a scientific context, it describes processes, substances, or characteristics of living organisms, such as "The biological mechanisms of cell reproduction." In a family context, it refers to relations by blood, as in "Her biological parents."

Related Terms

• Ecology: The study of organisms and their environment.
• Genetics: The study of heredity and variation in organisms.
• Physiology: The branch of biology dealing with the normal functions of living organisms.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Related to the science of biology or living organisms: Describes aspects of life science, such as cellular functions, genetics, and natural processes.
  • Example: "Scientists study the biological processes of growth and decay."
• Related by blood or birth: Refers to familial relationships that exist through genetics, rather than adoption or marriage.
  • Example: "He met his biological siblings for the first time."