homeostasis
UK: ˌhəʊ.mi.əʊˈsteɪ.sɪs | US: ˌhoʊ.mi.oʊˈsteɪ.sɪs
n. The tendency of a biological system to maintain internal stability while adjusting to changing external conditions.
n. Any self-regulating process by which a system remains in equilibrium.
The term "homeostasis" combines the Greek-derived morphemes "homeo-" (from homoios, meaning "similar" or "unchanging") and "-stasis" (from stasis, meaning "standing" or "stability"). Coined by physiologist Walter Cannon in 1926, it reflects the concept of biological systems actively maintaining balance despite external fluctuations. The word’s structure mirrors its meaning—homeo emphasizes consistency, while stasis underscores equilibrium.
The human body maintains homeostasis through mechanisms like sweating and shivering.
Disruptions in homeostasis can lead to diseases such as diabetes.
Plants achieve homeostasis by regulating water uptake and transpiration.
Feedback loops are essential for homeostasis in ecosystems.
Modern medicine studies how aging affects the body’s homeostasis.