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

And biophilic design goes beyond just use of natural materials and bringing greenery indoors—everything down to the minutiae of lighting can simulate a more natural environment. —Maya Chawla, Architectural Digest, 3 Nov. 2025

The biophilic design approach places Majid Al Futtaim at the forefront of an accelerating global movement. —Ritu Upadhyay, Footwear News, 28 Oct. 2025

From biophilic design to cutting-edge tech, here’s what’s illuminating patios, porches, and backyards in 2025. —Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 July 2025

There are buildings that look like the modern-day Hanging Gardens of Babylon, thanks to the popularity of biophilic design and architecture in Singapore. —Kissa Castaneda, Forbes.com, 8 July 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