artificial life

American  

noun

1. the simulation of any aspect of life, as through computers, robotics, or biochemistry.

---

artificial life Scientific  

1. The simulation of biological phenomena through the use of computer models and robotics.

---

Etymology

Origin of artificial life

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

Artificial life grew out of a type of computer program called a cellular automaton, invented by the Hungarian mathematician John von Neumann, creator of one of the first digital computers in the 1940s.

From Time Magazine Archive

Artificial life forms that "live" inside computers have evolved to the point where they can chase prey, evade predators and compete for limited resources.

From Time Magazine Archive

Artificial life is now so much more general than is natural life, that few people are aware how very false is much that surrounds them.

From Adventures of Hans Sterk The South African Hunter and Pioneer by Drayson, A. W. (Alfred Wilks)

Artificial life, whether in the select school or the select party, tends to weaken our faith in humanity; and a want of faith in our race is an omen of ill-success in life.

From Thoughts on Educational Topics and Institutions by Boutwell, George S.

Artificial life makes irruption into communities once simple in their pleasures, and it is like phylloxera to the vine.

From The Simple Life by Hendee, Mary Louise