Biologic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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biologic

[baɪəˈlɒdʒɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

study of living organisms

Relating to biology or living organisms.

Synonyms

biological, living, organic.

Examples of usage

  • Her biologic research focuses on marine life.
  • The biologic processes of plants and animals are fascinating.
Context #2 | Noun

healthcare field

A biologic is a pharmaceutical product that is produced using living organisms or contains components of living organisms.

Synonyms

biopharmaceutical, biotech drug.

Examples of usage

  • Biologics are often used to treat chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
  • This biologic medication is derived from human antibodies.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Biologic substances include vaccines, hormones, and proteins that are produced in living systems.
  • Biologic therapies are increasingly used to treat diseases by harnessing the body’s immune system to fight illness.
  • In the field of biotechnology, biologic products are derived from organic sources, often undergoing complex manufacturing processes.

Healthcare

  • Biologic medications have transformed treatments for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and certain cancers.
  • They are designed to mimic the natural substances in the body and are often more targeted than traditional drugs.
  • The development of biologic drugs involves rigorous testing and a longer approval process due to their complexity.

Cultural Impact

  • As awareness of biologic products has increased, there has been a corresponding rise in the popularity of organic foods and sustainable practices.
  • Documentaries and media focusing on health and biologics have influenced public perception and understanding of these complex treatments.
  • Cultural attitudes toward biologic versus synthetic medications can vary widely, affecting patient choices and healthcare policies.

Environmental Studies

  • Biologic factors are essential in understanding ecosystems, such as how organisms interact with each other and their environment.
  • Bioremediation is a process that uses biologic organisms to remove or neutralize pollutants from the environment.
  • The concept of biologic diversity is critical in conservation efforts, as it helps maintain ecological balance.

Origin of 'biologic'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'biologic' combines the Greek word 'bios', meaning life, and 'logikos', meaning reasoning or study.
  • It was first used in the English language in the 19th century, contributing to the creation of terms like 'biological'.
  • The prefix 'bio-' appears in many words related to life, such as 'biome', 'biotic', and 'biography'.

The term 'biologic' originates from the Greek word 'bios', meaning life. It is commonly used in the fields of biology, medicine, and pharmacology to refer to living organisms or products derived from living organisms. The development of biologics has revolutionized healthcare, providing effective treatments for various diseases by harnessing the power of living organisms.


See also: bio, biography, biologist, biology, biosphere, biota, biotech.