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a written account of another person's life: the biography of Byron by Marchand.
an account in biographical form of an organization, society, theater, animal, etc.
such writings collectively.
the writing of biography as an occupation or field of endeavor.
Origin of biography
Words nearby biography.
- biographical
- biographize
- bioindustry
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024
How to use biography in a sentence
Barrett didn’t say anything on Tuesday to contradict our understanding of her ideological leanings based on her past rulings, past statements and biography .
Republicans, meanwhile, focused mostly on her biography — including her role as a working mother of seven and her Catholic faith — and her credentials, while offering few specifics about her record as a law professor and judge.
She delivered an inspiring biography at one point, reflecting on the sacrifice her mother made to emigrate to the United States.
As Walter Isaacson pointed out in his biography of Benjamin Franklin, Franklin proposed the postal system as a vital network to bond together the 13 disparate colonies.
Serving that end, the book is not an in-depth biography as much as a summary of Galileo’s life and science, plus a thorough recounting of the events leading up to his famous trial.
The Amazon biography for an author named Papa Faal mentions both Gambia and lists a military record that matches the FBI report.
For those unfamiliar with Michals, an annotated biography and useful essays are included.
Did you envision your Pryor biography as extending your previous investigation—aesthetically and historically?
But Stephen Kotkin's new biography reveals a learned despot who acted cunningly to take advantage of the times.
Watching novelists insult one another is one of the primary pleasures of his biography .
He also published two volumes of American biography , a work which his death abridged.
Mme. de Chaulieu gave her husband the three children designated in the duc's biography .
The biography of great men always has been, and always will be read with interest and profit.
I like biography far better than fiction myself: fiction is too free.
The Bookman: "A more entertaining narrative whether in biography or fiction has not appeared in recent years."
British Dictionary definitions for biography
/ ( baɪˈɒɡrəfɪ ) /
an account of a person's life by another
such accounts collectively
Derived forms of biography
- biographer , noun
- biographical ( ˌbaɪəˈɡræfɪk ə l ) or archaic biographic , adjective
- biographically , adverb
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Cultural definitions for biography
The story of someone's life. The Life of Samuel Johnson , by James Boswell , and Abraham Lincoln , by Carl Sandburg , are two noted biographies. The story of the writer's own life is an autobiography .
The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
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Definition of biography noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary
- Boswell’s biography of Johnson
- a biography by Antonia Fraser
- The book gives potted biographies of all the major painters.
- blockbuster
- unauthorized
- biography by
- biography of
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- The Dictionary of National Biography
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biography noun
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What does the noun biography mean?
There are three meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun biography . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.
How common is the noun biography ?
How is the noun biography pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun biography come from.
Earliest known use
The earliest known use of the noun biography is in the mid 1600s.
OED's earliest evidence for biography is from 1661, in the writing of John Fell, bishop of Oxford.
biography is a borrowing from Latin.
Etymons: Latin biographia .
Nearby entries
- biognosy, n. 1880
- biograph, n. 1825–
- biograph, v. 1776–
- biographee, n. 1812–
- biographer, n. 1644–
- biographic, adj. 1752–
- biographical, adj. 1668–
- biographically, adv. ?1719–
- biographist, n. a1661–
- biographize, v. 1793–
- biography, n. 1661–
- biography, v. 1794–
- biographying, n. 1858–
- biohacker, n. 1988–
- biohacking, n. 1992–
- biohazard, n. 1965–
- biohazardous, adj. 1973–
- bioherm, n. 1928–
- biohermal, adj. 1937–
- bioidentical, adj. 1995–
- bioimaging, n. 1983–
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Meaning & use
Pronunciation, compounds & derived words, entry history for biography, n..
biography, n. was revised in November 2010.
biography, n. was last modified in July 2023.
oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:
- further revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
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Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into biography, n. in July 2023.
Earlier versions of this entry were published in:
OED First Edition (1887)
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Citation details
Factsheet for biography, n., browse entry.
What Is Biography? Definition, Usage, and Literary Examples
Biography definition.
A biography (BYE-og-ruh-fee) is a written account of one person’s life authored by another person. A biography includes all pertinent details from the subject’s life, typically arranged in a chronological order. The word biography stems from the Latin biographia , which succinctly explains the word’s definition: bios = “life” + graphia = “write.”
Since the advent of the written word, historical writings have offered information about real people, but it wasn’t until the 18th century that biographies evolved into a separate literary genre. Autobiographies and memoirs fall under the broader biography genre, but they are distinct literary forms due to one key factor: the subjects themselves write these works. Biographies are popular source materials for documentaries, television shows, and motion pictures.
The History of Biographies
The biography form has its roots in Ancient Rome and Greece. In 44 BCE, Roman writer Cornelius Nepos published Excellentium Imperatorum Vitae ( Lives of the Generals ), one of the earliest recorded biographies. In 80 CE, Greek writer Plutarch released Parallel Lives , a sweeping work consisting of 48 biographies of famous men. In 121 CE, Roman historian Suetonius wrote De vita Caesarum ( On the Lives of the Caesars ), a series of 12 biographies detailing the lives of Julius Caesar and the first 11 emperors of the Roman Empire. These were among the most widely read biographies of their time, and at least portions of them have survived intact over the millennia.
During the Middle Ages, the Roman Catholic Church had a notable influence on biographies. Historical, political, and cultural biographies fell out of favor. Biographies of religious figures—including saints, popes, and church founders—replaced them. One notable exception was Italian painter/architect Giorgio Vasari’s 1550 biography, The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects , which was immensely popular. In fact, it is one of the first examples of a bestselling book.
Still, it wasn’t until the 18th century that authors began to abandon multiple subjects in a single work and instead focus their research and writing on one subject. Scholars consider James Boswell’s 1791 The Life of Samuel Johnson to be the first modern biography. From here, biographies were established as a distinct literary genre, separate from more general historical writing.
As understanding of psychology and sociology grew in the 19th and early 20th centuries, biographies further evolved, offering up even more comprehensive pictures of their subjects. Authors who played major roles in this contemporary approach to biographing include Lytton Strachey, Gamaliel Bradford, and Robert Graves.
Types of Biographies
While all biographical works chronicle the lives of real people, writers can present the information in several different ways.
- Popular biographies are life histories written for a general readership. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot and Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer are two popular examples.
- Critical biographies discuss the relationship between the subject’s life and the work they produced or were involved in; for example, The Billionaire Who Wasn’t: How Chuck Feeney Secretly Made and Gave Away a Fortune by Conor O’Clery and Unpresidented: A Biography of Donald Trump by Martha Brockenbrough.
- Historical biographies put greater understanding on how the subject’s life and contributions affected or were affected by the times in which they lived; see John Adams by David McCullough and Catherine the Great by Peter K. Massie.
- Literary biographies concentrate almost exclusively on writers and artists, blending a conventional narrative of the historical facts of the subject’s life with an exploration of how these facts impacted their creative output. Some examples include Savage Beauty: The Life of Edna St. Vincent Millay by Nancy Milford and Jackson Pollock: An American Saga by Gregory White Smith and Steven Naifeh.
- Reference biographies are more scholarly writings, usually written by multiple authors and covering multiple lives around a single topic. They verify facts, provide background details, and contribute supplemental information resources, like bibliographies, glossaries, and historical documents; for example, Black Americans in Congress, 1870-2007 and the Dictionary of Canadian Biography .
- Fictional biographies, or biographical novels, like The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory, incorporate creative license into the retelling of a real person’s story by taking on the structure and freedoms of a novel. The term can also describe novels in which authors give an abundance of background information on their characters, to the extent that the novel reads more like a biography than fiction. An example of this is George R.R. Martin’s Fire and Blood , a novel detailing the history of a royal family from his popular A Song of Ice and Fire
Biographies and Filmed Entertainment
Movie makers and television creators frequently produce biographical stories, either as dramatized productions based on real people or as nonfiction accounts.
Documentary
This genre is a nonfictional movie or television show that uses historical records to tell the story of a subject. The subject might be a one person or a group of people, or it might be a certain topic or theme. To present a biography in a visually compelling way, documentaries utilize archival footage, recreations, and interviews with subjects, scholars, experts, and others associated with the subject.
Famous film documentaries include Grey Gardens, a biography of two of Jacqueline Kennedy’s once-wealthy cousins, who, at the time of filming, lived in squalor in a condemned mansion in the Hamptons; and I Am Not Your Negro , a biography of the life and legacy of pioneering American author James Baldwin.
Television documentary series tell one story over the course of several episodes, like The Jinx : The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst , a biography of the real estate heir and alleged serial killer that focused on his suspected crimes. There are many nonfiction television shows that use a documentary format, but subjects typically change from one episode to the next, such as A&E’s Biography and PBS’s POV .
These films are biographical motion pictures, written by screenwriters and performed by actors. They often employ a certain amount of creative liberty in their interpretation of a real life. This is largely done to maintain a feasible runtime; capturing all of the pivotal moments of a subject’s life in a 90- or 120-minute movie is all but impossible. So, filmmakers might choose to add, eliminate, or combine key events and characters, or they may focus primarily on one or only a few aspects of the subject’s life. Some popular examples: Coal Miner’s Daughter , a biography of country music legend Loretta Lynn; Malcom X , a biopic centered on the civil rights leader of the same name; and The King’s Speech , a dramatization of Prince Albert’s efforts to overcome a stutter and ascend the English throne.
Semi-fictionalized account
This approach takes a real-life event and interprets or expands it in ways that stray beyond what actually happened. This is done for entertainment and to build the story so it fits the filmmaker’s vision or evolves into a longer form, such as a multi-season television show. These accounts sometimes come with the disclaimer that they are “inspired by true events.” Examples of semi-fictionalized accounts are the TV series Orange Is the New Black , Masters of Sex , and Mozart of the Jungle —each of which stem from at least one biographical element, but showrunners expounded upon to provide many seasons of entertainment.
The Functions of Biography
Biographies inform readers about the life of a notable person. They are a way to introduce readers to the work’s subject—the historical details, the subject’s motivations and psychological underpinnings, and their environment and the impact they had, both in the short and long term.
Because the author is somewhat removed from their subject, they can offer a more omniscient, third-person narrative account. This vantage point allows the author to put certain events into a larger context; compare and contrast events, people, and behaviors predominant in the subject’s life; and delve into psychological and sociological themes of which the subject may not have been aware.
Also, a writer structures a biography to make the life of the subject interesting and readable. Most biographers want to entertain as well as inform, so they typically use a traditional plot structure—an introduction, conflict , rising of tension, a climax, a resolution, and an ending—to give the life story a narrative shape. While the ebb and flow of life is a normal day-to-day rhythm, it doesn’t necessarily make for entertaining reading. The job of the writer, then, becomes one of shaping the life to fit the elements of a good plot.
Writers Known for Biographies
Many modern writers have dedicated much of their careers to biographies, such as:
- Kitty Kelley, author of Jackie Oh! An Intimate Biography; His Way: The Unauthorized Biography of Frank Sinatra ; and The Family: The Real Story of the Bush Dynasty
- Antonia Fraser, author of Mary Queen of Scots ; Cromwell; Our Chief of Men ; and The Gunpowder Plot: Terror and Faith in 1605
- David McCullough, author of The Path Between the Seas; Truman ; and John Adams
- Andrew Morton, author of Diana: Her True Story in Her Own Words; Madonna ; and Tom Cruise: An Unauthorized Biography
- Alison Weir, author of The Six Wives of Henry VIII; Eleanor of Aquitaine: By the Wrath of God; Queen of England ; and Katherine Swynford: The Story of John of Gaunt and His Scandalous Duchess
Examples of Biographies
1. James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson
The biography that ushered in the modern era of true-life writing, The Life of Samuel Johnson covered the entirety of its subject’s life, from his birth to his status as England’s preeminent writer to his death. Boswell was a personal acquaintance of Johnson, so he was able to draw on voluminous amounts of personal conversations the two shared.
What also sets this biography apart is, because Boswell was a contemporary of Johnson, readers see Johnson in the context of his own time. He wasn’t some fabled figure that a biographer was writing about centuries later; he was someone to whom the author had access, and Boswell could see the real-world influence his subject had on life in the here and now.
2. Sylvia Nasar, A Beautiful Mind
Nasar’s 1998 Pulitzer Prize-nominated biography of mathematician John Nash introduced legions of readers to Nash’s remarkable life and genius. The book opens with Nash’s childhood and follows him through his education, career, personal life, and struggles with schizophrenia. It ends with his acceptance of the 1994 Nobel Prize for Economics. In addition to a Pulitzer nomination, A Beautiful Mind won the National Book Critics Circle Award for Biography, was a New York Times bestseller, and provided the basis for the Academy Award-winning 2001 film of the same name.
3. Catherine Clinton, Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom
Clinton’s biography of the abolitionist icon is a large-scale epic that chronicles Tubman’s singular life. It starts at her birth in the 1820s as the slave Araminta Ross, continuing through her journey to freedom; her pivotal role in the Underground Railroad; her Moses-like persona; and her death in 1913.
Because Tubman could not read or write, she left behind no letters, diaries, or other personal papers in her own hand and voice. Clinton reconstructed Tubman’s history entirely through other source material, and historians often cite this work as the quintessential biography of Tubman’s life.
4. Megan Mayhew Bergman, Almost Famous Women
Almost Famous Women is not a biography in the strictest sense of the word; it is a fictional interpretation of real-life women. Each short story revolves around a woman from history with close ties to fame, such as movie star Marlene Dietrich, Standard Oil heiress Marion “Joe” Carstairs, aviatrix Beryl Markham, Oscar Wilde’s niece Dolly, and Lord Byron’s daughter Allegra. Mayhew Bergman imagines these colorful women in equally colorful episodes that put them in a new light—a light that perhaps offers them the honor and homage that history denied them.
Further Resources on Biography
Newsweek compiled their picks for the 75 Best Biographies of All Time .
The Open Education Database has a list of 75 Biographies to Read Before You Die .
Goodreads put together a list of readers’ best biography selections .
If you’re looking to write biographies, Infoplease has instructions for writing shorter pieces, while The Writer has practical advice for writing manuscript-length bios.
Ranker collected a comprehensive list of famous biographers .
Related Terms
- Autobiography
- Short Story
Synonyms of biography
- as in memoir
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Thesaurus Definition of biography
Synonyms & Similar Words
- autobiography
- hagiography
- psychobiography
- character sketch
- pathography
Thesaurus Entries Near biography
biographies
Cite this Entry
“Biography.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/biography. Accessed 11 Apr. 2024.
More from Merriam-Webster on biography
Nglish: Translation of biography for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of biography for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about biography
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Meaning of "biography" in the English dictionary
Pronunciation of biography, grammatical category of biography, what does biography mean in english.
Definition of biography in the English dictionary
The definition of biography in the dictionary is an account of a person's life by another. Other definition of biography is such accounts collectively.
WORDS THAT RHYME WITH BIOGRAPHY
Words that begin like biography, words that end like biography, synonyms and antonyms of biography in the english dictionary of synonyms, synonyms of «biography», words relating to «biography», translation of «biography» into 25 languages.
TRANSLATION OF BIOGRAPHY
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Examples of use in the english literature, quotes and news about biography, 10 quotes with «biography», 10 english books relating to «biography», 10 news items which include the term «biography».
Definition of 'biograph'
Biograph in british english.
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Meaning of biography in Essential American English Dictionary
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(Definition of biography from the Webster's Essential Mini Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)
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a type of singing in which four, usually male, voices in close combination perform popular romantic songs, especially from the 1920s and 1930s
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Quick Summary
The Greek root word bio means ‘life.’ Some common English vocabulary words that come from this root word include bio logical, bio graphy, and amphi bi an. One easy word that is helpful in remembering bio is bio logy, or the study of ‘life.’
Living with 'Bio'
The Greek root word bio means ‘life,’ and gives rise mostly to words from the realm of the ‘life’ sciences.
We’ve all taken bio logy (or bio ) classes, in which you learn all about ‘life.’ Bio logical processes have to do with the way ‘living’ organisms function. Micro bio logists study small ‘life’ forms, such as bacteria, viruses, and other one-celled organisms.
Speaking of life forms, amphi bi ans, such as frogs and salamanders, can ‘live’ both in water and on land. Amphi bio us military vehicles, such as tanks, can also operate or ‘live’ in both water and on land.
A bio graphy (or bio ) is a book that tells all about the events in someone’s ‘life,’ written by an author other than the subject of the ‘life’ history. An auto bio graphy, on the other hand, is a history of a person’s ‘life’ written by that person.
The adjective aero bi c refers to the oxygen a ‘life’ form requires in order to ‘live.’ Aero bi cs are simply exercises which cause ‘living’ organisms, such as yourself, to breathe faster as your body consumes more oxygen. Anaero bi c exercise almost completely depletes the oxygen from a ‘living’ organism’s body, such as an all-out sprint which leaves you gasping for air!
Sym bio tic organisms ‘live’ together, each needing the other to survive. An example of a mutually beneficial sym bio sis or ‘living’ together is between the clownfish and the anemone (think “Finding Nemo”). In this relationship which increases survival rates, the clownfish gets a protective home, and the anemone gets cleaned by the clownfish.
And just where can living organisms live and thrive? Why, in a bio sphere of course, or those parts of the Earth that support and allow the existence of ‘life.’
You can now add the knowledge of this handy root word bio to your, well, knowledge bio , which will hopefully make the rest of your vocabulary ‘life’ a bit more livable!
- biology : study of ‘life’
- microbiology : study of very small ‘life’ forms
- amphibian : ‘life’ living in water and on land
- biography : a ‘life’ history
- symbiosis : two ‘life’ forms living together
- aerobic : pertaining to air for ‘life’ to exist
- anaerobic : lacking air for ‘life’ to exist
- biosphere : part of the Earth where organisms ‘live’
Related Rootcasts
The fascinating parts of words.
Morphology is the study of how words are put together by using morphemes, which include prefixes, roots, and suffixes. Parsing the different morphemes in a word reveals meaning and part of speech. For instance, the word “invention” includes the prefix in- + the root vent + the suffix -ion , from which is formed the noun “invention.”
Etymology: Word Origins
Etymology is that part of linguistics that studies word origins. English vocabulary words are formed from many different sources, especially Latin and Greek. By determining the origins of the morphemes in English words, one is better able to remember and determine the dictionary definitions of words.
A sym bio tic relationship is one in which two organisms, organizations, or people intimately depend on each other, both acting to benefit the relationship.
Biology is the scientific study of living things, such as plants and animals.
relating to or characteristic of animals of the class Amphibia
autobiography
a bio graphy of yourself
short for “ bio graphy”
biochemistry
the organic chemistry of compounds and processes occurring in organisms
biodegradable
capable of being decomposed by e.g. bacteria
break down naturally through the action of bio logical agents
biodiversity
the diversity of plant and animal life in a particular habitat (or in the world as a whole)
the branch of ethics that studies moral values in the bio medical sciences
biofeedback
a training program in which a person is given information about physiological processes (heart rate or blood pressure) that is not normally available with the goal of gaining conscious control of them
an account of the series of events making up a person's life
plant materials and animal waste used as fuel
physics as applied to bio logical problems
examination of tissues or liquids from the living body to determine the existence or cause of a disease
an inborn bio logical process that is cyclical in nature
the regions of the surface and atmosphere of the Earth (or other planet) where living organisms exist
macrobiotics
the theory of promoting health and longevity by means of diet (especially whole beans and grains)
a minute life form (especially a disease-causing bacterium)
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Bio Words: A Comprehensive List of Words that Start with Bio
By: Author ESLBUZZ
Posted on Last updated: September 5, 2023
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Are you a biology enthusiast or just looking to expand your vocabulary? If so, you might be interested in learning about these bio words. In this article, we will explore some of the most common and interesting bio words that you can use in your studies as well as casual conversations.
So, let’s dive in and discover some of the most interesting and useful words that start with this prefix!
Bio words – Image
Understanding Bio Words
When you see the prefix ‘bio’ in a word, it refers to something related to life or living organisms. This prefix comes from the Greek word ‘bios’, which means ‘one’s life, course or way of living, lifetime’. The prefix ‘bio’ is commonly used in scientific and medical fields to refer to living organisms and their constituents.
Here are some examples of words that start with ‘bio’ and their meanings:
- Biology : the study of living organisms and their interactions with each other and their environment.
- Biography : an account of someone’s life, usually written by someone else.
- Biome : a large ecosystem characterized by its climate, vegetation, and wildlife.
- Biosphere : the part of the Earth’s surface and atmosphere where living organisms exist.
- Biopsy : the removal of a small sample of tissue from a living body for examination.
It’s important to note that the prefix ‘bio’ is not the same as the prefix ‘geo’, which refers to the Earth or the environment. For example, ‘geography’ is the study of the Earth’s physical features, while ‘biology’ is the study of living organisms.
Common Bio Words
One of the most well-known words that start with “bio” is biology. This field of science is concerned with the study of living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, and evolution. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in biology, you might study topics like genetics, ecology, and microbiology.
Another common word that starts with “bio” is biography. This term refers to a written account of someone’s life, often including details about their upbringing, education, career, and personal relationships. Biographies can be found in many different genres, including nonfiction, memoir, and historical fiction.
The biosphere is another term that starts with “bio.” This word refers to all of the living organisms on Earth, as well as the environments in which they live. The biosphere includes everything from the depths of the ocean to the tops of the mountains, and it plays a crucial role in supporting life on our planet.
Biodegradable
If you’re interested in sustainability and environmentalism, you might be familiar with the term biodegradable. This adjective refers to materials that can be broken down by natural processes, such as bacteria and fungi. Biodegradable materials are often used in products like packaging and clothing to reduce waste and pollution.
Biochemical
Finally, we have the word biochemical. This term refers to the chemical processes that occur within living organisms, including the reactions that allow us to metabolize food and produce energy. Biochemical research is an important field of study in medicine, as it helps us to better understand how our bodies function and how we can treat diseases.
Less Common Bio Words
Bioluminescence.
Bioluminescence is the emission of light by living organisms, such as fireflies, glowworms, and some types of jellyfish. It’s a fascinating phenomenon that has captured the attention of scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. Bioluminescence has many potential applications, including in medical imaging, environmental monitoring, and bioluminescent art.
Biomimicry is the practice of using nature as a model for human design. It involves studying natural systems and processes and applying those insights to solve human problems. Biomimicry has led to some remarkable innovations, such as Velcro (inspired by the way burrs stick to clothing) and bullet trains (designed to mimic the aerodynamics of a kingfisher’s beak).
A biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the body for examination under a microscope. Biopsies are commonly used to diagnose cancer, but they can also be used to diagnose other conditions, such as infections and autoimmune disorders. There are many different types of biopsies, including needle biopsies, surgical biopsies, and endoscopic biopsies.
Bioinformatics
Bioinformatics is the application of computer science and statistics to the field of molecular biology. It involves the use of computational tools to analyze and interpret biological data, such as DNA sequences and protein structures. Bioinformatics has become an essential tool in many areas of biology, including genomics, proteomics, and drug discovery.
Biorhythm is the idea that there are three cycles that govern a person’s physical, emotional, and intellectual well-being. These cycles are known as the physical cycle, the emotional cycle, and the intellectual cycle. Biorhythm theory suggests that a person’s performance in these areas is influenced by the phases of these cycles. While biorhythm theory is not widely accepted by the scientific community, some people still find it interesting and use it to track their own cycles.
Scientific Bio Words
Biophysics is a field of study that combines biology and physics. It focuses on the physical principles that govern the behavior of living organisms. Biophysicists use techniques such as X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance, and electron microscopy to study the structure and function of biological molecules. Some examples of biophysical research include studying the mechanics of proteins and the interactions between molecules in cells.
Bioengineering
Bioengineering is the application of engineering principles to biological systems. It involves designing and developing new technologies and devices to improve human health and the environment. Bioengineers work on projects such as developing artificial organs, designing prosthetic limbs, and creating new medical imaging techniques. They also work on environmental projects such as developing new ways to clean up pollution and designing sustainable agriculture systems.
Biotechnology
Biotechnology is the use of living organisms or their products to create new technologies and products. It involves using genetic engineering and other techniques to manipulate the DNA of organisms to produce desired traits. Biotechnology has many applications, including developing new medicines, creating new crop varieties, and producing biofuels . Some controversies surrounding biotechnology include concerns about the safety of genetically modified organisms and the ethics of using animals for research.
Bioethics is the study of ethical issues related to biology and medicine. It involves examining questions such as whether it is ethical to use animals in research, whether it is ethical to genetically modify organisms, and whether it is ethical to use certain medical treatments. Bioethicists work to develop guidelines and policies to ensure that scientific research is conducted ethically and that the benefits of scientific research are balanced against any potential risks.
Biodiversity
Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms on Earth. It includes all living things, from the smallest bacteria to the largest animals. Biodiversity is important because it helps to maintain the balance of ecosystems and provides many benefits to humans, such as food, medicine, and clean water. However, biodiversity is under threat due to factors such as habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution. Conservation efforts are underway to protect biodiversity and ensure that future generations can enjoy the benefits of a diverse and healthy planet.
Congratulations! You have reached the end of our article on bio words. We hope that this article has been informative and helpful in expanding your vocabulary.
As you can see, there are plenty of words that begin with “bio” that are worth knowing. From biology to biography, these words can be useful in a wide variety of contexts. Whether you are a student, a writer, or just someone who enjoys learning new words, we hope that you have found this article to be a valuable resource.
Remember, expanding your vocabulary is an ongoing process. Don’t be afraid to keep exploring and learning new words. And if you come across any other interesting words that begin with “bio,” be sure to share them with your friends and colleagues.
Thank you for reading, and happy learning!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common bio words?
There are many common words that start with the prefix ‘bio’. Some examples include biology, biography, biodegradable, biochemistry, and bioinformatics. These words are often related to life, living organisms, and the study of living things.
What is the meaning of the prefix ‘bio’?
The prefix ‘bio’ comes from the Greek word ‘bios’, which means life. When added to the beginning of a word, it usually indicates that the word is related to living organisms or the study of living things.
How can the prefix ‘bio’ be used to create new words?
The prefix ‘bio’ can be combined with other words to create new words that relate to living things or the study of living things. For example, ‘bioluminescence’ refers to the production of light by living organisms, while ‘biomechanics’ combines ‘bio’ with ‘mechanics’ to describe the study of how living organisms move.
What are some Greek words that start with ‘bio’?
In addition to ‘bios’, there are many other Greek words that start with ‘bio’. Some examples include ‘biota’, which refers to all the living organisms in a particular area, and ‘biome’, which describes a large ecological community of plants and animals.
Which scientific fields commonly use words that start with ‘bio’?
Many scientific fields use words that start with ‘bio’, including biology, biochemistry, biophysics, and biotechnology. These fields all involve the study of living organisms or the use of living organisms to develop new technologies.
What are some examples of ‘bio’ words used in social media hashtags?
Some popular social media hashtags that use ‘bio’ words include #biotech, #biohacking, and #biogas. These hashtags are often used to discuss new developments in biotechnology, ways to improve health and wellness through biohacking, and the use of biogas as a renewable energy source.
Some descriptive words that can be used in creative writing are:
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can you provide examples of academic words?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"
Here are some examples of academic words:
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Where can I find the Academic Word List in PDF format?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"
The Academic Word List can be found in PDF format on the website of the University of Reading.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are some good vocabulary words for narrative writing?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"
Here are some good vocabulary words for narrative writing:
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is the Academic Word List and what is its meaning?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"
The Academic Word List is a list of words that are commonly found in academic texts. It is intended to help students improve their vocabulary and comprehension of academic texts.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How can I improve my English vocabulary using root words?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"
One way to improve your English vocabulary using root words is to learn prefixes and suffixes. For example, the prefix \"un-\" means \"not\", so if you know the word \"happy\" and the prefix \"un-\", you can figure out that \"unhappy\" means \"not happy\". Similarly, the suffix \"-able\" means \"able to be\", so if you know the word \"read\" and the suffix \"-able\", you can figure out that \"readable\" means \"able to be read\".
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biography: [noun] a usually written history of a person's life.
BIOGRAPHY definition: 1. the life story of a person written by someone else: 2. the life story of a person written by…. Learn more.
Biography definition: a written account of another person's life. See examples of BIOGRAPHY used in a sentence.
biography: 1 n an account of the series of events making up a person's life Synonyms: life , life history , life story Examples: Parallel Lives a collection of biographies of famous pairs of Greeks and Romans written by Plutarch; used by Shakespeare in writing some of his plays Types: show 4 types... hide 4 types... autobiography a biography ...
2 meanings: 1. an account of a person's life by another 2. such accounts collectively.... Click for more definitions.
biography of See full entry Word Origin late 17th cent.: from French biographie or modern Latin biographia , from medieval Greek, from bios 'life' + -graphia 'writing'.
BIOGRAPHY meaning: 1. the story of a person's life written by another person 2. about someone's life: . Learn more.
Biography. A biography, or simply bio, is a detailed description of a person's life. It involves more than just basic facts like education, work, relationships, and death; it portrays a person's experience of these life events. Unlike a profile or curriculum vitae ( résumé ), a biography presents a subject's life story, highlighting various ...
biography, form of literature, commonly considered nonfictional, the subject of which is the life of an individual.One of the oldest forms of literary expression, it seeks to re-create in words the life of a human being—as understood from the historical or personal perspective of the author—by drawing upon all available evidence, including that retained in memory as well as written, oral ...
biography - WordReference English dictionary, questions, discussion and forums. All Free. ... 'biography' also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations):-graphy - Bancroft Prize - Christine de Pisan - D.N.B. - Froude - Johnson - Life of Samuel Johnson, ...
Where does the noun biography come from? The earliest known use of the noun biography is in the mid 1600s. OED's earliest evidence for biography is from 1661, in the writing of John Fell, bishop of Oxford. biography is a borrowing from Latin. Etymons: Latin biographia.
BIOGRAPHY meaning: 1. the life story of a person written by someone else: 2. the life story of a person written by…. Learn more.
biography (noun) biography /baɪ ˈ ɑːgrəfi/ noun. plural biographies. Britannica Dictionary definition of BIOGRAPHY. [count] : the story of a real person's life written by someone other than that person. a new biography of Abraham Lincoln. — compare autobiography.
The meaning of BIO is a biography or biographical sketch. How to use bio in a sentence. ... These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'bio.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. ... Britannica English: Translation ...
A biography (BYE-og-ruh-fee) is a written account of one person's life authored by another person. A biography includes all pertinent details from the subject's life, typically arranged in a chronological order. The word biography stems from the Latin biographia, which succinctly explains the word's definition: bios = "life" + graphia ...
Synonyms for BIOGRAPHY: memoir, autobiography, bio, history, life, hagiography, psychobiography, obituary, chronicle, profile
biographies. definition 1: an account, usu. written, of the facts and circumstances of one person's life. similar words: life, memoir. definition 2: such written accounts collectively. definition 3: the field of biographical writing.
A noun is a type of word the meaning of which determines reality. Nouns provide the names for all things: people, objects, sensations, feelings, etc. WHAT DOES BIOGRAPHY MEAN IN ENGLISH? Biography. A biography or simply bio is a detailed description or account of a person's life. It entails more than basic facts like education, work ...
biography. (baɪɒgrəfi ) Word forms: biographies plural. 1. countable noun. A biography of someone is an account of their life, written by someone else. ...recent biographies of Stalin. 2. uncountable noun. Biography is the branch of literature which deals with accounts of people's lives. ...a volume of biography and criticism.
2 meanings: 1. a biographical summary 2. to write a biography of.... Click for more definitions.
BIOGRAPHY definition: 1. the story of a person's life written by another person 2. about someone's life: . Learn more.
A bio graphy (or bio) is a book that tells all about the events in someone's 'life,' written by an author other than the subject of the 'life' history. An auto bio graphy, on the other hand, is a history of a person's 'life' written by that person. The adjective aero bi c refers to the oxygen a 'life' form requires in order ...
Here are some examples of words that start with 'bio' and their meanings: Biology: the study of living organisms and their interactions with each other and their environment. Biography: an account of someone's life, usually written by someone else. Biome: a large ecosystem characterized by its climate, vegetation, and wildlife.