physiology

[ fiz-ee-ol-uh-jee ]

noun

1. the branch of biology dealing with the functions and activities of living organisms and their parts, including all physical and chemical processes.
2. the organic processes or functions in an organism or in any of its parts.

physiology

/ ˌfɪzɪˈɒlədʒɪ /

noun

1. the branch of science concerned with the functioning of organisms
2. the processes and functions of all or part of an organism

physiology

/ fĭz′ē-ŏl′ə-jē /

1. The scientific study of an organism's vital functions, including growth and development, the absorption and processing of nutrients, the synthesis and distribution of proteins and other organic molecules, and the functioning of different tissues, organs, and other anatomic structures. Physiology studies the normal mechanical, physical, and biochemical processes of animals and plants.

physiology

1. The study of the function of living things, including processes such as nutrition, movement, and reproduction. ( Compare anatomy and morphology .)

Derived Forms

• ˌphysiˈologist, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of physiology¹

First recorded in 1555–65; from Latin physiologia, from Greek physiología “science of natural causes and phenomena”; physio-, -logy

Word History and Origins

Origin of physiology¹

C16: from Latin physiologia, from Greek

Example Sentences

Her father worked as a GP and her mother was a physiology professor.

From BBC

“It is incredibly exciting because it is giving us new insights into physiology, anatomy, a new understanding of humans,” she told BBC news.

From BBC

The medicine and physiology prize winners are selected by the Nobel Assembly of Sweden's Karolinska Institute.

From BBC

"Stressors can bring on changes in our physiology."

From Salon

“We are constantly underestimating animals,” David Mellor, a retired professor of applied physiology and bioethics, told Salon from his home in New Zealand.

From Salon