systemic
UK: sɪˈstɛmɪk | US: sɪˈstɛmɪk
adj. relating to or affecting an entire system
adj. (medicine) describing something that affects the whole body rather than a localized area
adj. (biology) pertaining to systemic circulation or systemic tissues
The word "systemic" originates from the Greek word "sustēma" (σύστημα), meaning "organized whole or body." The morpheme "system" entered English via Late Latin "systema," retaining its core meaning of interconnected components. The suffix "-ic," derived from Latin "-icus" and Greek "-ikos," transforms nouns into adjectives, indicating "pertaining to." Thus, "systemic" literally means "pertaining to a system," reflecting its modern usage in describing holistic or widespread effects.
The disease caused systemic inflammation throughout the patient's body.
Climate change requires systemic solutions rather than isolated fixes.
The company implemented systemic changes to improve workplace culture.
Systemic racism affects institutions across society.
In biology, systemic tissues receive nutrients via blood circulation.