biological

[bahy-uh-loj-i-kuhl]

adjective

1. Biology.,  Also biologic relating to the science and application of biology.

   Ideal candidates will have appropriate training in both physical and biological chemistry.

2. Biology.,  relating to or involving living matter.

   Liquid nitrogen is critical for preserving blood, tissue, and other biological specimens.

3. Biology.,  relating to the living organisms of a region.

   We are hoping to manage the river valley so that we maintain and enhance the current level of biological diversity.

4. Biology, Genetics.,  related genetically, as a birth parent whose egg or sperm contributed to the DNA of a child.

   He met his biological father when he was 37.

   The Greenes have two biological sons and one adopted daughter.

noun

1. Pharmacology.,  Usually biologicals. biologic.

biological

/ ˌbaɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl /

adjective

1. of or relating to biology

2. (of a detergent) containing enzymes said to be capable of removing stains of organic origin from items to be washed

noun

1. (usually plural) a drug, such as a vaccine, that is derived from a living organism

Other Word Forms

• biologically adverb
• nonbiological adjective
• nonbiologically adverb
• pseudobiological adjective
• pseudobiologically adverb
• semibiologic adjective
• semibiological adjective
• semibiologically adverb
• unbiological adjective
• unbiologically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of biological¹

First recorded in 1855–60; biolog(y) + -ical

Example Sentences

The team noted that the study did not explore the biological reasons behind these behavioral shifts, and controlled research will be necessary to confirm CBD's calming potential.

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Elsewhere, glass in the shape of biological masses is covered in delicate wire and thread, looking like the oversize results from lumpectomies.

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In young adults with obesity, the team identified biological markers linked to inflammation, liver strain and early injury to brain cells.

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Unfortunately, the same biological traits that cause autoimmune diabetes in these mice also make them harder to prepare safely for a blood stem cell transplant.

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Researchers report that people who have more muscle and a lower visceral fat to muscle ratio tend to show signs of a younger biological brain age.

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Related Words

• organic