biomechanics
by-oh-muh-KAN-iks
/ˌbaɪəʊmɪˈkænɪks/
The study of the mechanical laws relating to the movement or structure of living organisms.
It treats the body as a system of levers and pulleys to optimize performance and prevent injury.
The story behind the word. A relatively modern term combining the Greek 'bios' (life) and 'mechanics.' It emerged as a distinct field in the 20th century as technology allowed us to measure the forces acting on the body.
Word relationships
- kinesiology: Kinesiology is the broader study of human movement; biomechanics is the specific application of physics to that movement.
Word family
- biomechanical (adjective): Relating to biomechanics.
Collocations
- sports biomechanics
- biomechanics lab
- gait biomechanics
Example sentences
- "The study of biomechanics helps athletes improve their technique and avoid injury." Analyzing an athlete's technique.
Memory hook
Bio (Life) + Mechanics (Physics). The physics of life. The engineering of the body.
When not to use
Do not use when discussing purely biological or chemical processes like digestion.
Fun facts
- Biomechanics is used to design high-tech running shoes and prosthetic limbs for Paralympians.
Related words
Explore more words
ergonomic, bioengineering, biomimicry, physiology, Dynamics, mechanistic
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