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Osmotic: meaning, definitions and examples

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osmotic

 

[ ɒzˈmɒtɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

biological process

Osmotic refers to the process of osmosis, which is the movement of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to a region of higher solute concentration. This process is crucial for maintaining cell turgor and regulating fluid balance in organisms. Osmotic movement is essential in various biological systems, including plant physiology and human kidneys. It plays a significant role in numerous medical and scientific applications, particularly in understanding how fluids flow in and out of cells.

Synonyms

fluid-dynamic, solute-based

Examples of usage

  • Osmotic pressure affects plant hydration.
  • The osmotic balance is vital for cell function.
  • Osmotic gradients are crucial in kidney function.

Translations

Translations of the word "osmotic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 osmótico

🇮🇳 ओस्मोटिक

🇩🇪 osmatisch

🇮🇩 osmotik

🇺🇦 осмотичний

🇵🇱 osmotyczny

🇯🇵 浸透圧の

🇫🇷 osmotic

🇪🇸 osmótico

🇹🇷 ozmotik

🇰🇷 삼투의

🇸🇦 أوزموتي

🇨🇿 osmotický

🇸🇰 osmotický

🇨🇳 渗透的

🇸🇮 osmotski

🇮🇸 osmótískur

🇰🇿 осмотикалық

🇬🇪 ოსმოსური

🇦🇿 osmotik

🇲🇽 osmótico

Etymology

The term 'osmotic' is derived from the word 'osmosis', which stems from the Greek word 'ōsmos', meaning 'push' or 'thrust'. Osmosis was first described in the mid-19th century by scientists exploring the behavior of water and solutes in biological systems. It was observed that water naturally flows across semipermeable membranes, a phenomenon crucial for living organisms. The introduction of the term 'osmotic' to describe the pertaining processes occurred as biology and chemistry began to converge, allowing for a better understanding of cellular functions. The concept has evolved significantly with advancements in biophysics and cellular biology, becoming foundational in disciplines such as medicine, nutrition, and environmental science.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,514, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.