biohacking

American  

[bahy-oh-hak-ing] / ˈbaɪ oʊˌhæk ɪŋ /

noun

1. strategic biological experimentation, especially upon oneself, using technology, drugs, hormones, diet, etc., with the goal of enhancing or augmenting performance, health, mood, or the like.

   Genome editing could one day allow for biohacking your own emotional genetic makeup.

2. unethical, immoral, or illegal experimental use of genetic material.

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Etymology

Origin of biohacking

First recorded in 1990–95; bio- ( def. ) + hack ¹ ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

The treatments on offer at Xtend and elsewhere have an air of science and spirituality to them—they are discussed at longevity conferences, biohacking meetups, and even immortalist churches.

From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026

He talked about the biohacking he uses to maintain elite performances and longevity at the age of 41.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 14, 2026

This mindset puts him at odds with more extreme elements of the biohacking movement, which has gained attention through figures like tech entrepreneur Bryan Johnson.

From BBC • Aug. 4, 2025

Nevertheless, the concern is that some individuals could appropriate the biohacking space with bad intentions, said Lisa Rasmussen, a philosophy professor at University of North Carolina, Charlotte who is writing a book about DIY science.

From Salon • Dec. 15, 2024

Look at the celebrities and Silicon Valley hotshots who hawk “wellness” or biohacking regimes.

From Washington Post • Jan. 7, 2022