organism

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a system considered analogous in structure or function to a living body

   the social organism

2. 2
   noun

   A discrete and complete living thing, such as animal, plant, fungus or microorganism.

   Plastics are energy-rich substances, which is why many of them burn so readily. Any organism that could unlock and use that energy would do well in the Anthropocene. Terrestrial bacteria and fungi which can manage this trick are already familiar to experts in the field.

3. 3
   noun

   Something with many separate interdependent parts, seen as being like a living thing; an organic system.

   For the first time, Edith was aware of the hotel as a well populated organism, its attendants merely resting until an appropriate occasion should summon them to present themselves […].

4. 4
   noun

   a living thing that has (or can develop) the ability to act or function independently

5. 5
   noun

   The fact of being organic; organicity.

Etymology

First attested in 1701; from organ + -ism, from Ancient Greek ὄργανον (órganon, “a tool, instrument”), from Proto-Indo-European *werǵ- (“work”). Compare New Latin organismus.