Bionics

/baɪˈɑn.ɪks/ noun

Definition

The science of designing artificial systems that work like living organisms, or replacing body parts with mechanical devices that function like the original.

Etymology

Blended from biology + electronics, created in the 1960s by scientist Jack Steele. It combines bio- (life) with the -ics suffix (science/practice of), representing a new field at the intersection of nature and technology.

Kelly Says

Bionics gave us prosthetic limbs that actually work, and inspired the 1970s TV show 'The Six Million Dollar Man'—today, scientists use bionics to create robotic arms that can feel touch!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.