biological clock

noun

: an inherent timing mechanism in a living system that is inferred to exist in order to explain the timing or periodicity of various behaviors and physiological states and processes

Examples of biological clock 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.
In an article published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, the AASM explains that the timing of light and darkness, which dictates sleep and wake rhythms, regulates the human biological clock. Sophie Okolo, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024 The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) stated that the human biological clock is why daylight saving impacts sleep. Sophie Okolo, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024 Light pollution also hurts birds by altering their biological clocks. Brian Handwerk, Smithsonian Magazine, 25 Oct. 2024 In its original state, the song is a rumination on Charli’s biological clock, and not wanting to sacrifice her career to have kids. Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 18 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for biological clock 

Word History

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of biological clock was in 1941

Dictionary Entries Near biological clock

Cite this Entry

“Biological clock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/biological%20clock. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

biological clock

noun
: a mechanism that exists in living things and controls the timing of behaviors and bodily functions which occur in cycles

Medical Definition

biological clock

noun
: an inherent timing mechanism in a living system (as a cell) that is inferred to exist in order to explain various cyclical behaviors and physiological processes

More from Merriam-Webster on biological clock

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!