# physiological

/ˌfɪziəˈɫɑdʒɪkəɫ/ (US) · /fˌɪzɪəlˈɒdʒɪkəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/physiological
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. body functions

adjective · CEFR C1 · Academic · Technical

relating to the way a living body or its parts work.

For teachers: pertaining to the normal biological functions of living organisms and their organs.

- The body has a physiological response to fear, such as a faster heartbeat.
- The researchers monitored the physiological changes in the athletes as they adapted to the high-altitude environment over several weeks.

Usage: Often used to contrast physical bodily processes with mental or psychological ones.

Teaching tip: Learners often confuse this with 'physical'; explain that 'physiological' specifically refers to internal biological systems and functions rather than just the outer body.

### 2. drug effects

adjective · CEFR C2 · Technical · Formal

relating to the normal effect a substance has on a healthy body.

For teachers: relating to the effects of a drug or substance on a healthy organism, as opposed to its curative or therapeutic effects on a diseased one.

- The study looked at the physiological effects of caffeine on healthy adults.
- Distinguishing between the physiological impact of the compound on healthy tissue and its therapeutic efficacy against the virus was the primary goal of the first phase.

## Examples

- Exercise causes physiological changes in your heart rate.
- The doctor explained the physiological reasons for her fatigue rather than blaming stress.
- The study distinguished between the physiological stress response, such as increased cortisol, and the psychological perception of pressure.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.