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

This is largely due to early school start times, which force teens to wake up before their biological clocks are ready. —Joanna Fong-Isariyawongse, The Conversation, 7 Mar. 2025

First, refining and validating these biological clocks across diverse populations is essential. —William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025

While the female biological clock is undoubtedly a factor in these results, women clearly feel a certain pressure to hit these particular milestones by this age. —Justin Gest, Newsweek, 11 Feb. 2025

If your job allows it, setting firm boundaries around work hours can prevent late-night tasks from disrupting your biological clock, which can lead to a reliance on catch-up sleep, Smith said. —Julianna Bragg, CNN, 15 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for biological clock

• aftershock
• antiknock
• arawak
• hollyhock
• interlock
• isopach
• manioc
• shuttlecock
• tomahawk
• weathercock
• alcock
• beanstalk

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