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

Derived Forms

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

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

For Wallace Bulimo, biochemistry professor at Kenya's University of Nairobi, events in DR Congo underscore the need for more investment.

From BBC • May 22, 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

Students have received less rigorous preclinical education in genetics, biochemistry and epidemiology.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

“It was good. A little over my head. I was a biochemistry major, remember, not a literature guy. I do wish it had ended.”

From "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green