biophilic

adjective

bio·​phil·​ic ˌbī-ō-ˈfi-lik How to pronounce biophilic (audio)
: of, relating to, or characterized by biophilia : relating to, showing, or being the human tendency to interact or be closely associated with other forms of life in nature
The biophilic tendency is nevertheless so clearly evinced in daily life and widely distributed as to deserve serious attention. It unfolds in the predictable fantasies and responses of individuals from early childhood onward.E. O. Wilson
However, the emerging concept of biophilic design recognizes how much human physical and mental well-being relies on the quality of our relationships to the natural world.Lindsey Blomberg

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web If your style is more contemporary, try one of the latest interior trends, such as neutral colors, biophilic designs, or vintage patterns. Bryce Jones, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Mar. 2023 The upstairs, meanwhile, is accessed through the staircase in the family room, which has a live Zen garden with a bonsai tree underneath the stairs for a touch of biophilic design. Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 8 Mar. 2023 Ensconced in 48 forested acres, the adults-only Naviva immerses you in nature with 15 luxury tents on a private Mexican peninsula, striking biophilic design and experiences like stargazing safaris, temazcal (a kind of sweat lodge) sessions and free-diving breathwork. Jennifer Kester, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2023 The Ora House in San Diego, California Located in San Diego, The Ora House fuses biophilic elements with striking architecture and absolute luxury. Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 2 Mar. 2023 Resident wellbeing was of utmost importance to the architects and Alchemy Properties, who incorporated biophilic design elements and state-of-the-art technology into the building. Emma Reynolds, Forbes, 27 Dec. 2021 From the sound of running water to the aroma of basil, biophilic design elements can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall happiness, says Bissonnette. Lia Picard, Wired, 8 May 2021 One of the easiest ways to introduce biophilic design to your home is through live plants. Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Feb. 2023 But what of the other hours, when both work and play have sadly sandwiched our lives between digital screens? Enter biophilic interior design. Christina Poletto, WSJ, 28 Oct. 2020 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'biophilic.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of biophilic was in 1932

Dictionary Entries Near biophilic

Cite this Entry

“Biophilic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/biophilic. Accessed 6 May. 2023.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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