What does homeostasis mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˌhoʊmi.əˈstæsɪs/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

The ability of an organism or system to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions, through a set of physiological processes that regulate factors such as temperature, pH, and concentration of ions and nutrients.

Examples

• The body’s ability to regulate its internal temperature is an example of homeostasis.
• The thermostat in the room maintained a constant temperature, demonstrating homeostasis.

Synonyms

• Stability
• Equilibrium

Antonyms

• Instability
• Dysregulation

Additional Information

Homeostasis is a vital process that helps maintain the overall health and function of an organism. It involves a complex set of mechanisms that work together to regulate various physiological processes, such as metabolism, growth, and development.

Homeostasis can be observed in various systems, including the human body, where it helps maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions. For example, the body’s ability to regulate its internal temperature, pH, and concentration of ions and nutrients is an example of homeostasis.

In addition to its importance in maintaining health, homeostasis also plays a crucial role in various diseases and disorders. For example, diabetes is a condition where the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels is impaired, leading to hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.

Etymology

The term “homeostasis” was coined by Walter Bradford Cannon in 1929, from the Greek words “homaios” meaning “similar” and “stasis” meaning “standing”.

Usage Notes

Homeostasis is a term commonly used in biology, medicine, and physiology to describe the ability of an organism or system to maintain a stable internal environment.

Cultural References

Homeostasis has been referenced in various cultural contexts, including in literature, art, and music. For example, the concept of homeostasis has been explored in the works of authors such as Kurt Vonnegut and Philip K. Dick.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Homeostatic balance”
• “Homeostatic regulation”

Related Words or Phrases

• Equilibrium
• Stability
• Regulation

Collocations

• “Maintain homeostasis”
• “Regulate homeostasis”
• “Homeostasis is essential for life”

Frequency of Use

Homeostasis is a moderately used term in modern language, commonly used in scientific and medical contexts.

Common Misspellings

• Homostasis
• Homeostatis
• Homoeostasis