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zeitgeber

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //ˈzaɪtˌɡeɪbər//

KK: /ˈzaɪtˌɡeɪbər/

noun
Definition

A signal from the environment that helps to regulate the body's internal clock, such as changes in light or temperature.


Example

The sunrise acts as a natural zeitgeber, helping to wake people up in the morning.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of the term zeitgeber?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it refers to things like light that help regulate our sleep cycle.
Sloth A
Exactly! It's interesting how our bodies respond to those cues.
Sloth B
Right? I've noticed how I sleep better when I get more natural light.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cue
signal
stimulus
Antonyms
disruption
chaos
confusion
Root Explanation

Zeitgeber is a compound word from the German "Zeit" (meaning time) and "geber" (meaning giver). It refers to an external cue that helps regulate the body's biological clock, essentially a 'time giver.'

Memory Tip

Think of 'time' ('Zeit') being given or provided ('geber') to help regulate your body's internal clock.

Visually Confused Words

No commonly confused words.

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