Definition

Referring to substances that are not naturally found in the body or living organisms, often used in the context of chemical compounds that can affect biological systems.

Example

Xenobiotic compounds can sometimes be harmful to health if they accumulate in the body.

Conversation

Have you heard about those xenobiotic chemicals they found in the river?

Yeah, it's pretty alarming how they can affect the ecosystem.

Right? It's scary to think about how many xenobiotic substances we're exposed to daily.

Totally, we should be more aware of what we consume and how it impacts our health.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A chemical substance that is not naturally found in an organism and can include drugs, pesticides, or other harmful compounds.

Example

The study focused on the effects of xenobiotics on human health.

Conversation

Did you know that some foods we eat can contain xenobiotic chemicals?

Really? I had no idea that could happen.

Yeah, things like pesticides can be considered xenobiotic substances.

Root Explanation

Xenobiotic → It is formed from "xeno-" (from Greek "xenos", meaning foreign) and "biotic" (from Greek "biotikos", meaning relating to life). The word "xenobiotic" refers to substances that are foreign to a living organism, particularly those that are not naturally produced or expected in the body.

Memory Tip

Think of 'foreign' ('xeno-') substances that affect 'life' ('biotic') — that's what xenobiotic means.

Visually Confused Words