physiology

Definition

A branch of biology that deals with the functions and activities of life or of living matter (as organs, tissues, or cells) and of the physical and chemical phenomena involved.

Etymology

From French physiologie, from Latin physiologia, from Ancient Greek φυσιολογία (phusiología, “natural philosophy”), from φύσις (phúsis, “nature”) + λόγος (lógos, “word”). Equivalent to physio- + -logy.

Example Sentences

• "So he clung to the sides of the vertical tunnel, le wormhole, employing the setules covering his legs, that is, millions of tiny spider-hairs with triangular tips, a wall-creeper physiology if you wish, a hang-upside-down-from-the-ceiling anatomical boon."

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