Main Entry: ¹sys·tem·ic

Pronunciation: \sis-ˈtem-ik\

Function: adjective

: of, relating to, or common to a system: as a : affecting the body generally—compare local b : supplying those parts of the body that receive blood through the aorta rather than through the pulmonary artery c : being a pesticide that as used is harmless to a higher animal or a plant but when absorbed into the bloodstream or the sap makes the whole organism toxic to pests (as cattle grubs, mites, or aphids)

—sys·tem·i·cal·ly \-i-k(ə-)lē\ adverb