Biochemistry: meaning, definitions and examples

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biochemistry

 

[ baɪəʊˈkɛmɪstri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

science field

Biochemistry is the branch of science that explores the chemical processes and substances within living organisms. It combines principles from both biology and chemistry to understand the molecular mechanisms that underlie various biological functions. This field is essential for advancing our knowledge in medicine, genetics, and biochemistry’s implications on health and disease.

Synonyms

biochemical science, molecular biology.

Examples of usage

  • Biochemistry reveals how proteins and enzymes function.
  • Research in biochemistry is crucial for developing new medical therapies.
  • Her studies in biochemistry helped her understand metabolic pathways.

Translations

Translations of the word "biochemistry" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bioquímica

🇮🇳 जैव रसायन

🇩🇪 Biochemie

🇮🇩 biokimia

🇺🇦 біохімія

🇵🇱 biochemia

🇯🇵 生化学

🇫🇷 biochimie

🇪🇸 bioquímica

🇹🇷 biyokimya

🇰🇷 생화학

🇸🇦 علم الأحياء الجزيئي

🇨🇿 biochemie

🇸🇰 biochémia

🇨🇳 生物化学

🇸🇮 biohimija

🇮🇸 lífefnafræði

🇰🇿 биохимия

🇬🇪 ბიოქიმია

🇦🇿 biokimya

🇲🇽 bioquímica

Etymology

The term 'biochemistry' is derived from the combination of two roots: 'bio-' meaning life, and 'chemistry,' which is the science of substances and their interactions. The concept emerged in the 19th century, as scientists began to understand that biological processes could be explained through chemical reactions. The early contributions of chemists like Friedrich Wöhler and Emil Fischer laid the groundwork for this interdisciplinary field. By the mid-20th century, biochemistry had established itself as an essential discipline, with the elucidation of DNA structure by Watson and Crick marking a pivotal moment. This revolutionized our understanding of genetics and molecular biology, further emphasizing the critical relationship between chemistry and biological systems.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,569, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.