bioengineering
UK[ˌbaɪəʊˌendʒɪˈnɪərɪŋ]US[ˌbaɪoʊˌendʒɪˈnɪrɪŋ]
n
The application of engineering principles and techniques to problems in biology and medicine, especially the technology involved in genetic engineering.
n
The branch of engineering that deals with the use of living organisms or their components to develop products and processes.
Morpheme Breakdown
bio
engineering
bio
life
engineering
application of science
Etymology
The term 'bioengineering' is a modern compound, fusing the Greek-derived prefix 'bio-' with the established English word 'engineering'. The Greek root 'bios' signifies "life, course of living," a concept fundamental to biology. 'Engineering' traces back to the Latin 'ingenium', meaning "innate talent, intellect, clever device," which evolved to denote the profession of designing and building. The compound, emerging in the mid-20th century, logically marries these concepts: it is the discipline of applying the inventive, problem-solving techniques of engineering specifically to the systems and processes of living organisms, bridging the gap between the biological and technological worlds.
Analysis
Structure: bio (life) + engineering (application of science)
- bio: From Greek 'bios' (life). A combining form meaning "life" or "living organisms."
- engineering: From Latin 'ingenium' (innate quality, clever invention). The application of scientific and mathematical principles to practical ends such as the design, manufacture, and operation of efficient structures, machines, processes, and systems.
Examples
Advances in bioengineering have led to the development of artificial organs.
She pursued a degree in bioengineering to work on sustainable food production technologies.
The bioengineering firm specializes in creating novel drug delivery systems.