organic
or-GAN-ik
/ɔːrˈɡæn.ɪk/
Relating to or derived from living matter; in design, characterized by continuous or flowing lines and shapes.
In design, it refers to shapes that look like they grew naturally rather than being built with a ruler.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'organon,' meaning a tool or instrument. Early scientists saw the parts of a living body as 'tools' that worked together, hence 'organic.'
Word relationships
- natural: Natural is very broad; organic specifically suggests a living, growing structure.
- geometric: Characterized by straight lines, circles, and hard angles.
Commonly confused with
- biological: Biological refers to the science of life; organic refers to the form or the material.
Word family
- organism (noun): An individual living thing.
Collocations
- organic growth
- organic shapes
- organic architecture
Example sentences
- "Frank Lloyd Wright's 'Fallingwater' is a masterpiece of organic architecture, blending seamlessly with the surrounding forest." Describing architectural style.
Memory hook
Organic: Think of an 'Organ.' It's a part of a living body. Flowing like life.
When not to use
Don't use in a design context to mean 'pesticide-free' (which is the food definition).
Fun facts
- Organic chemistry is the study of carbon-based compounds, which are the building blocks of life.
Related words
Explore more words
artificial, synthetic, biodegradable, Anthropogenic, artisanal, compost
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