Organic
/ɔːrˈɡænɪk/
In English, organic describes something derived from living matter or, in chemistry, a carbon‑based compound, and is commonly used for products grown without synthetic chemicals.
Examples
- Understanding organic reactions is key to modern chemistry.
- He presented his research on organic polymers at the conference.
- Their brand is known for organic certification.
- She specializes in organic synthesis of pharmaceuticals.
- The market now sells many organic products.
Meanings
The term entered English in the early 19th century, originally referring to the structure of living organisms, and later broadened to describe food and products grown without synthetic chemicals.
Examples
- Organic farming avoids synthetic pesticides.
- She prefers organic vegetables for their flavor.
- The market now sells many organic products.
- He bought organically grown tomatoes at the farmer's market.
- Their brand is known for organic certification.
Chemists adopted the term to distinguish carbon‑based substances from inorganic compounds, leading to the field of organic chemistry.
Examples
- The lab studies organic molecules that are essential for life.
- She specializes in organic synthesis of pharmaceuticals.
- Understanding organic reactions is key to modern chemistry.
- He presented his research on organic polymers at the conference.
- The textbook explains organic structures in detail.