Definition

This word describes things that are not alive, such as sunlight, water, and minerals. It refers to the physical parts of the environment that affect living things.

Example

The abiotic components of the ecosystem play a crucial role in determining the types of organisms that can thrive there.

Conversation

I just learned about abiotic factors in science class today.

Oh really? What did you find interesting about them?

Well, they talked about how things like light and temperature affect ecosystems, which is pretty cool.

That is cool! I never thought about how much nonliving things influence the environment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Abiotic → It is formed from "a-" (meaning without) and "biotikos" (from Greek "bios", meaning life). The word "abiotic" refers to factors or conditions that are without life or not derived from living organisms.

Memory Tip

Think of 'without' ('a-') and 'life' ('bios') to remember that 'abiotic' describes things that are not alive.

Visually Confused Words