biochemistry

American  

[bahy-oh-kem-uh-stree] / ˌbaɪ oʊˈkɛm ə stri /

noun

1. the science dealing with the chemistry of living matter.

2. the chemistry of living matter.

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biochemistry British  

/ ˌbaɪəʊˈkɛmɪstrɪ /

noun

1. the study of the chemical compounds, reactions, etc, occurring in living organisms

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biochemistry Scientific  

/ bī′ō-kĕm′ĭ-strē /

1. The scientific study of the chemical composition of living matter and of the chemical processes that go on in living organisms.

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biochemistry Cultural  

1. The study of the structure and interactions of the complex organic molecules (see also organic molecule) found in living systems.

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Other Word Forms

• biochemic
  adjective
• biochemical
  adjective
• biochemically
  adverb
• biochemist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of biochemistry

First recorded in 1880–85; bio- + chemistry

Explanation

Biochemistry is the field of science that explores the molecules and processes that occur in living things. The term biochemistry comes from adding bio-, or "life," to chemistry, which is the science that deals with the composition, structures, and properties of substances, along with the reactions and transformations they undergo in combination. Looking at the human body through the lens of biochemistry can help us understand processes like digestion and nutrition. Proteins, carbohydrates, and other nutrients are all chemicals — and it's thanks to biochemical reactions that your body's cells are able to absorb glucose and create energy to keep you going.

Example Sentences

When liquid MMA is exposed to heat or light, it will start a chain reaction, said Elaine Villanueva Bernal, a lecturer at Cal State Long Beach’s department of chemistry and biochemistry.

From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026

Quantum has the potential to move the needle on research in national security, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmaceuticals and finance — areas, Newman explained, where outcomes can be “infinitely complex.”

From MarketWatch • May 22, 2026

She’s a Sunday-school teacher and a biochemistry major nearly finished with her college degree.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

Ramos, a biochemistry student, said she was focused now on securing her status, continuing her studies, and building a life with her husband.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

He had probably completed biology by now, she guessed, and would be studying higher mathematics, or astrophysics, or biochemistry, one of the subjects that was whispered about, when they were young, as incomprehensibly difficult.

From "Son" by Lois Lowry