Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to the normal functioning of a living organism: Pertaining to the physical and chemical processes that occur within a living body to maintain life.
   • Relating to the scientific study of physiology: Pertaining to the branch of biology that deals with these normal functions and processes.

Usage

• The adjective physiological is used to describe processes, functions, states, or responses that are part of an organism's normal biological operations. It is often contrasted with "pathological," which refers to diseased states.
• It is commonly used in scientific, medical, and biological contexts.

Examples

• Describing normal bodily function:
  • Breathing is a basic physiological need.
  • The body undergoes various physiological changes during exercise.
• Relating to the science of physiology:
  • Her research focuses on the physiological basis of behavior.
  • He presented a new physiological model for understanding sleep cycles.

Advanced Usage

• "Physiological response": A bodily reaction triggered by a specific stimulus, such as an increased heart rate due to fear.
  • The physiological response to stress involves the release of adrenaline.
• "Physiological state": The condition of an organism's bodily systems at a given time.
  • Hunger is a physiological state that signals the need for nutrients.

Variants and Related Words

• Physiologic (adj): An alternate, often synonymous form of , frequently used in medical contexts (e.g., ).
• Physiology (n): The scientific study of the functions and mechanisms in a living system.
  • She majored in physiology.
• Physiologist (n): A scientist who specializes in physiology.

Synonyms

• Biological: Pertaining to life and living organisms.
• Functional: Relating to the way a living thing or bodily part works.

Antonyms

• Pathological: Relating to or caused by disease.
• Non-biological: Not derived from or involving living organisms.

Related Phrases and Compound Terms

(Note: These are listed as related terms, not as definitions of the target word "physiological.") - Physiological psychology: A branch of psychology that studies the biological bases of behavior and mental processes. - Physiological saline: A salt solution with the same osmotic pressure as blood serum.

Adjective

1. of or consistent with an organism's normal functioning
   • physiologic functions
   • physiological processes
2. of or relating to the biological study of physiology
   • physiological psychology
   • Pavlov's physiological theories