Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Biotechnology: meaning, definitions and examples

🧬
Add to dictionary

biotechnology

 

[ˌbaɪ.oʊˌtɛkˈnɒlədʒi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

science

Biotechnology is the use of biological processes, organisms, or systems to manufacture products intended to improve the quality of human life. It involves the manipulation of living organisms at the molecular and genetic level to create useful products.

Synonyms

bioengineering, biotech, genetic engineering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
biotechnology

General term for the use of living systems and organisms to develop or create products. Often used broadly to describe the industry or field as a whole.

  • Biotechnology has the potential to revolutionize healthcare.
  • She works in the biotechnology sector, focusing on drug development.
bioengineering

Focuses on applying engineering principles to biological and medical problems. Typically used in contexts that emphasize the technical and engineering aspects.

  • Bioengineering is key in the development of medical devices like pacemakers.
  • He studied bioengineering to help develop new prosthetic limbs.
genetic engineering

Refers specifically to the direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology. Often discussed in contexts involving genetic modification or editing.

  • Genetic engineering has enabled the creation of crops resistant to pests.
  • The ethics of genetic engineering are hotly debated.
biotech

Informal or shorthand for biotechnology. Suitable for casual conversation, marketing, or when aiming for brevity.

  • The biotech startup secured major funding for its new project.
  • Biotech companies are growing rapidly in our city.

Examples of usage

  • Biotechnology has revolutionized the fields of medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.
  • Genetic engineering is a key component of biotechnology.
  • The biotechnology industry is constantly evolving and expanding.
Context #2 | Noun

industry

Biotechnology is a rapidly growing industry that encompasses a wide range of scientific disciplines, including genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry. It involves the development of products and technologies that utilize biological systems.

Synonyms

biomedical technology, biotech industry, biotech sector.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
biotechnology

Used to describe the broad field involving the manipulation of living organisms or their systems to develop products or solve problems. It can apply to various industries, including agriculture, healthcare, and environmental science.

  • Biotechnology is revolutionizing the way we produce food and treat diseases
biotech sector

Similar to 'biotech industry', this term is used to refer to the segment of the market occupied by biotechnology companies. It's often used in financial and market analysis contexts.

  • The biotech sector saw significant growth this quarter, driven by advancements in genetic therapies
biotech industry

Describes the commercial sector involved in biotechnology, including companies that develop products and services based on biotechnological research.

  • The biotech industry is attracting substantial investments due to its potential for high returns
biomedical technology

Specifically refers to the application of engineering and technology principles to the medical field, often focusing on developing medical devices, diagnostic equipment, and advanced therapies.

  • Recent advances in biomedical technology have led to the creation of more efficient and less invasive medical devices

Examples of usage

  • The biotechnology sector is a major contributor to the economy.
  • Many pharmaceutical companies are heavily invested in biotechnology research.
  • Biotechnology companies often collaborate with academic institutions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 'Biotechnology' is derived from the Greek word 'bios,' meaning life, and 'techne,' meaning art or craft.
  • The term became popular in the 20th century, reflecting advancements in science and industry to manipulate living organisms.

Historical Developments

  • The origins of biotechnology can be traced back to ancient practices like fermentation in bread-making and brewing beer.
  • The 1970s marked a pivotal point in biotechnology with the development of recombinant DNA technology, allowing scientists to combine DNA from different species.

Applications

  • In agriculture, biotechnology is used to create genetically modified crops that can resist pests or grow in poor soil.
  • Medical biotechnology plays a crucial role in developing new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostic tests to improve health care.

Ethics and Controversies

  • Biotechnology raises ethical questions about genetic modification, such as the impact on biodiversity and potential health risks associated with GMOs.
  • Debates continue over cloning and stem cell research, focusing on moral implications and the boundaries of scientific exploration.

Pop Culture

  • Biotechnology is often depicted in science fiction films where advanced genetics create new species or restore extinct animals.
  • Video games sometimes incorporate biotechnological themes, exploring player choices in creating new life forms or bio-enhancements.

Translations

Translations of the word "biotechnology" in other languages:

🇵🇹 biotecnologia

🇮🇳 जैव प्रौद्योगिकी

🇩🇪 Biotechnologie

🇮🇩 bioteknologi

🇺🇦 біотехнологія

🇵🇱 biotechnologia

🇯🇵 バイオテクノロジー

🇫🇷 biotechnologie

🇪🇸 biotecnología

🇹🇷 biyoteknoloji

🇰🇷 생명공학

🇸🇦 التكنولوجيا الحيوية

🇨🇿 biotechnologie

🇸🇰 biotechnológia

🇨🇳 生物技术

🇸🇮 biotehnologija

🇮🇸 líftækni

🇰🇿 биотехнология

🇬🇪 ბიოტექნოლოგია

🇦🇿 biotexnologiya

🇲🇽 biotecnología

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,909, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.