biophilic

adjective

bio·​phil·​ic ˌbī-ō-ˈfi-lik 

: 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

Examples of biophilic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Try today’s trending biophilic design, which brings nature into living spaces for a tranquil retreat. —Caitlin Sole, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 May 2025

And in a recent study published by Terrapin Bright Green, guests exposed to biophilic design (spaces that integrate natural elements) were found to experience a 13% increase in well-being and a 15% boost in reported satisfaction. —Ashlee Marie Preston, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025

As businesses reimagine the post-pandemic workplace, biophilic design has emerged as a core strategy for rehumanizing office culture. —Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 19 Apr. 2025

Interiors, courtesy of INC Architecture & Design, take inspiration from nature, with biophilic elements, desert tones, and calming woods throughout. —Tori Latham, Robb Report, 4 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for biophilic

• acrylic
• argillic
• benzylic
• cyrillic
• idyllic
• acidophilic
• dicarboxylic
• electrophilic
• nucleophilic
• tricarboxylic
• amphiphilic
• basophilic