biological system
/ˌbaɪ.oʊˈlɒdʒ.ɪ.kəl ˈsɪs.təm/ · bi·o·log·i·cal sys·tem
noun
- A complex network of biologically related components that interact to perform a specific function within an organism or ecosystem. The circulatory system is a biological system that transports blood throughout the body.
- Any organized set of living elements—cells, tissues, organs, or species—that operate collectively to maintain life processes. Researchers modeled the coral reef as a biological system to study its response to climate change.
Synonyms
organismal systemphysiological systembiological networkbio‑systemorgan systemecosystemlife systemliving system
Antonyms
Did you know? The term "biological system" gained prominence in the 1930s when ecologists began treating ecosystems as integrated, self‑regulating wholes rather than mere collections of species.