Biology Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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biology
[baɪˈɒlədʒi ]
Definitions
study of living organisms
Biology is the scientific study of living organisms, their physical structure, chemical processes, molecular interactions, physiological mechanisms, development, and evolution.
Synonyms
life science, natural science.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| biology |
General term used in academic and scientific contexts to refer to the study of living organisms.
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| life science |
Broader term encompassing multiple fields, used in more formal or professional contexts, particularly in industries like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and research.
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| natural science |
An overarching category that includes astronomy, physics, chemistry, and earth sciences, along with biology. This term is used when referring to scientific disciplines that study the natural world.
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Examples of usage
- She is majoring in biology at the university.
- The biology teacher explained the process of photosynthesis to the students.
living organisms in a particular area
Biology can also refer to the plant and animal life of a particular area or habitat. It involves the study of ecosystems, biodiversity, and the interactions between different species.
Synonyms
ecology, environmental science.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| biology |
Used when talking about the study of living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, and evolution.
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| ecology |
Focused on how organisms interact with each other and their environment.
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| environmental science |
Broad field encompassing various sciences, dealing with issues like pollution, conservation, and climate change.
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Examples of usage
- The biology of the Amazon rainforest is incredibly diverse.
- The biologist conducted a survey of the marine biology in the coral reef.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Aristotle, known as the 'Father of Biology,' made significant contributions, especially in classifying animals and plants.
- In the 17th century, the invention of the microscope marked a turning point, allowing scientists to discover microscopic life forms.
Pop Culture
- Biology has inspired numerous films and books, such as 'Jurassic Park', which explores cloning dinosaurs from ancient DNA.
- Many popular video games, like 'Pokemon', integrate biological concepts, such as evolution and habitat adaptation into their gameplay.
Science
- Biology is divided into various branches such as botany (study of plants), zoology (study of animals), and microbiology (study of microorganisms).
- The discovery of DNA's structure in 1953 by Watson and Crick laid the foundation for modern genetics, impacting biology profoundly.
Education
- Biology is a core subject in schools worldwide, often serving as a foundation for students interested in medicine, environmental science, and research.
- Laboratory experiments in biology classes teach students the scientific method, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Origin of 'biology'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'biology' comes from the Greek words 'bios' meaning life and 'logia' meaning study or discourse.
- The word was first coined in the 19th century, with the modern definition evolving over time as science advanced.
The term 'biology' originated from the Greek words 'bios' meaning life and 'logos' meaning study or science. The modern field of biology has its roots in ancient civilizations such as Greece and Egypt, where early naturalists and philosophers made observations about living organisms. Over time, the study of biology has evolved into a complex and diverse discipline encompassing a wide range of topics and subfields.
See also: bio, biography, biologic, biologist, biosphere, biota, biotech.