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

Examples of biophilic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web There’s also a large water feature underneath the grand floating staircase which brings a biophilic design sense to the space. Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 7 Feb. 2024 Nigel Dancey, head of studio at Foster + Partners, is now leading the design team on the whimsical, biophilic structure that factors in natural light and ventilation as conduits for working smarter. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 25 Mar. 2024 The mass timber adds a biophilic atmosphere for residents of The Edison by exposing the wood on the ceiling, the beams, and columns of the building. Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 14 Jan. 2024 Blue Heron is known for its modern, architecturally significant homes that put biophilic design and sustainability at the forefront. Emma Reynolds, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024 The easiest way to bring biophilic design into a home is with houseplants, especially tropical plants that thrive in low light. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Jan. 2024 Carol Miller, color and trend expert with York Wallcoverings, says the rich color complements recent trends like biophilic design and dark academia. Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Dec. 2023 With the emergence of biophilic design, which brings natural elements to homes and offices to promote a sense of well-being, lush plant displays became essential to Silicon Valley start-ups and established companies alike. Steven Kurutz, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2023 Indeed, the ultra-modern, biophilic home wouldn’t look out of place in Malibu or even Hawaii, thanks to its full embrace of its natural surroundings. Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 9 Aug. 2023

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 18 Apr. 2024.

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