physiological

adjective

phys·​i·​o·​log·​i·​cal ˌfi-zē-ə-ˈlä-ji-kəl How to pronounce physiological (audio)
variants or physiologic
Synonyms of physiologicalnext
1
: of or relating to physiology
2
: characteristic of or appropriate to an organism's healthy or normal functioning
the sodium level was physiological
3
: differing in, involving, or affecting physiological factors
a physiological strain of bacteria
physiologically adverb

Examples of physiological in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
From a physiological standpoint, exercising works to break down the muscle with the intention of rebuilding it. Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 22 Feb. 2026 Sleep requires the body to cool down At the physiological level, the mechanism is straightforward. Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 21 Feb. 2026 The neurotransmitters issue physiological calls and responses, which turn into an athlete’s physical execution under pressure. Sally Jenkins, The Atlantic, 21 Feb. 2026 Some speculation has existed about whether the basic physiological processes necessary for intercourse, particularly for men, might be compromised by microgravity. Literary Hub, 20 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for physiological

Word History

First Known Use

1704, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of physiological was in 1704

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Physiological.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physiological. Accessed 23 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

physiological

adjective
phys·​i·​o·​log·​i·​cal ˌfiz-ē-ə-ˈläj-i-kəl How to pronounce physiological (audio)
variants or physiologic
1
: of or relating to physiology
2
: characteristic of healthy or normal functioning of the body
physiologically adverb

Medical Definition

physiological

adjective
phys·​i·​o·​log·​i·​cal ˌfiz-ē-ə-ˈläj-i-kəl How to pronounce physiological (audio)
variants or physiologic
1
: of or relating to physiology
2
: characteristic of or appropriate to an organism's healthy or normal functioning
3
: differing in, involving, or affecting physiological factors
a physiological strain of bacteria
physiologically adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on physiological

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