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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
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
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Word History
First Known Use
1941, in the meaning defined above
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 29 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
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about biological clock
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