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Biotech Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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biotech

[ˈbaɪəʊtɛk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

science

Biotech is the use of living organisms or biological systems to create products or solve problems. It involves the manipulation of DNA, proteins, and other molecules to develop new technologies.

Synonyms

biotechnology.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
biotech

Best suited for informal contexts and often used as a shorthand when talking about the biotech industry.

  • He's working at a startup in biotech
  • The biotech sector is growing rapidly
biotechnology

Appropriate for formal, scientific, and technical discussions and when emphasizing the full scope of the field.

  • The symposium on biotechnology attracted leading scientists from around the world
  • Biotechnology has the potential to revolutionize medicine

Examples of usage

  • Biotech companies are working on developing new drugs to treat diseases.
  • The field of biotech has made significant advancements in agriculture and medicine.
  • Biotech research focuses on improving the quality of life through innovative solutions.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Biotech plays a crucial role in developing vaccines, which have become vital in fighting diseases globally.
  • Genetic engineering, a branch of biotech, allows scientists to modify the DNA of organisms, leading to advancements like GMO crops with increased resistance to pests.

Ethics

  • Biotech raises important ethical questions, especially regarding genetic modifications and the ownership of living organisms.
  • Debates often center around the potential consequences for biodiversity and the moral implications of gene editing technologies.

Pop Culture

  • Biotech innovations have inspired numerous movies, exploring themes of genetic manipulation and its impact on humanity, such as in 'Jurassic Park'.
  • Television shows like 'Biohackers' dramatize the ethical dilemmas and breakthroughs within biotech, engaging audiences in its exciting possibilities.

Economic Impact

  • The global biotech market is projected to grow significantly, indicating its importance in both healthcare and agricultural sectors.
  • Startups in biotech are often among the most funded in the tech industry, highlighting the potential for profitability and innovation.

Origin of 'biotech'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'biotechnology' was first coined in 1919 by Hungarian engineer Karl Ereky, highlighting the blend of biology and technology.
  • In the original sense, it referred to the production of goods using living organisms, like fermenting beer or making cheese.

The term 'biotech' originated in the 1970s as a short form of 'biotechnology'. It emerged as a distinct field of science combining biology and technology to create new products and processes. The rapid growth of biotech industries in the late 20th century led to breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.

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

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,149, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.