Definition of organism
1 : a complex structure of interdependent and subordinate elements whose relations and properties are largely determined by their function in the whole the nation is not merely the sum of individual citizens at any given time, but it is a living organism, a mystical body … of which the individual is an ephemeral part — Joseph Rossi
2 : an individual constituted to carry on the activities of life by means of parts or organs more or less separate in function but mutually dependent : a living being a multicellular organism
From the M-W Editors
Examples of organism in a Sentence
A human being is a complex organism.
Recent Examples of organism from the Web
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This might be expected to disrupt the gene and kill the organism.
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Scientists from Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland analyzed 250 DNA samples of Mycobacterium chimaera, an organism typically found in soil and tap water.
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Birds, bats and mammals feed on these organisms and, in turn, become prey to larger predators.
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One of Germany’s states has provided a big boost for biologists who want to decipher the genomes of organisms that don’t get much attention.
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Thirsty hikers may be tempted to gulp from the alpine springs, but experts say look out – the clear mountain water could be full of microscopic organisms just waiting to wreak havoc on your stomach.
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The themes of compassion are expressed through a micro angle, as our organisms and bodies are symmetrical and balanced on a cellular level.
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Answer: The study of the genome, which is the complete set of DNA in an organism.
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Particularly as the climate continues to change, organisms may move around the world and end up in new places all on their own, a process known as natural colonization.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'organism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of organism
circa 1774
Other Biology Terms
ORGANISM Defined for English Language Learners
organism
playDefinition of organism for English Language Learners
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: an individual living thing
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: a system with many parts that depend on each other and work together
ORGANISM Defined for Kids
organism
playDefinition of organism for Students
: a living thing made up of one or more cells and able to carry on the activities of life (as using energy, growing, or reproducing)
Medical Dictionary
Learn More about organism
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See words that rhyme with organism Spanish Central: Translation of organism Nglish: Translation of organism for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of organism for Arabic speakers
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