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organic

or-GAN-ik /ɔːrˈɡænɪk/

adjectiveB1IELTSTOEFL

neutral

Produced or involving production without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or other artificial agents.

In a supermarket, it refers to a specific certification and labeling standard.

The story behind the word. From the Greek 'organon', meaning an instrument or tool. It originally referred to the 'organs' of the body. In the 18th century, it was used to describe things derived from living organisms, and by the 1940s, it was applied to farming that used only natural fertilizers.

Word relationships

natural: 'Natural' is a vague term with no legal definition, while 'organic' is strictly regulated.
pesticide-free: Specifically refers to the lack of pesticides, but may not meet all organic standards.

conventional: Refers to standard farming methods that may use chemicals.
synthetic: Made by chemical synthesis, especially to imitate a natural product.

Commonly confused with

non-GMO: Non-GMO means not genetically modified, but it doesn't necessarily mean the product is organic.

Word family

organically (adverb): In an organic way.
organism (noun): An individual animal, plant, or single-celled life form.

Collocations

organic food
organic farming
certified organic

Example sentences

"Many people choose to buy organic milk to avoid added hormones." Health
"Organic farming methods focus on soil health and biodiversity." Agriculture

Memory hook

Organic food comes from 'organisms' (living things) without chemicals. Organic: Only Real Growth, Absolutely No Industrial Chemicals.

When not to use

In chemistry, 'organic' means relating to carbon compounds, which is different from the food definition.

Fun facts

The 'Dirty Dozen' is a list of produce items that are most important to buy organic due to high pesticide residue.
Organic food sales have grown from a niche market to a $60 billion industry in the US.