allostasis

[ al-uh-stey-sis ]

noun

1. the process of continual change by which an organism adjusts its internal functions, such as temperature, blood pressure, etc., in response to activity or the environment so as to maintain physiological stability. Compare homeostasis ( def 1 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of allostasis¹

First recorded in 1985–90; allo- ( def ) + stasis ( def )

Example Sentences

Sleeping soundly and following wakefulness patterns help the brain efficiently maintain the body’s energy balance, a process known as allostasis, said Barrett, the Northeastern professor.

From Seattle Times

Sleeping soundly and following wakefulness patterns help the brain efficiently maintain the body’s energy balance, a process known as allostasis, said Barrett, the Northeastern professor.

From Washington Post

Allostasis has a different perspective: physiological challenges provoke far-flung adaptations throughout the body.

From Scientific American

One speculative reason for this is something called allostasis, which is the body’s response to withering lifelong stressors and challenges.

From Washington Post

Allostasis is, in that sense, a politically sophisticated theory of human physiology.

From New York Times