English

Alternative forms

• homoeostasis (UK)
• homœostasis (dated)

Noun

homeostasis ‎(plural homeostases)

1. (physiology) The ability of a system or living organism to adjust its internal environment to maintain a state of dynamic constancy; such as the ability of warm-blooded animals to maintain a stable temperature.
   • 2011, Professional Guide to Pathophysiology, Lippincott, Williams, & Wilkins, page 1:

     When homeostasis is disrupted by an external stressor - such as injury, lack of nutrients, or invasion by parasites or other organisms - illness may occur.

2. Such a dynamic equilibrium or balance.

Derived terms

• homeostatic
• metal homeostasis

Related terms

• stasis

Translations