biosynthesis

[ bahy-oh-sin-thuh-sis ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. the formation of chemical compounds by a living organism.
2. the laboratory preparation of biological molecules by the use of reagents or catalysts derived from natural substances and modeled on a series of reactions occurring in a living organism.

biosynthesis

/ ˌbaɪəʊˈsɪnθɪsɪs; ˌbaɪəʊsɪnˈθɛtɪk /

noun

1. the formation of complex compounds from simple substances by living organisms

Derived Forms

• biosynthetic, adjective
• ˌbiosynˈthetically, adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of biosynthesis¹

First recorded in 1925–30; bio- + synthesis