physiologically

Physiologically is an adverb relating to physiology, the branch of biology that studies the functions and mechanisms of living systems. The term derives from physiology, with the common English suffix -ly converting the noun into an adverb. It is used to describe processes, states, or responses as they occur within the framework of an organism’s biological function rather than its anatomy or behavior alone.

In discourse, physiologically is employed to talk about how organisms perform, regulate, and adapt. For example, one might describe cardiovascular responses to exercise physiologically, noting changes in heart rate, stroke volume, and blood pressure. The phrase can apply to human physiology, animal physiology, or plant physiology, and it is often used in comparative contexts across species. In research and clinical settings, statements such as physiologically normal, physiologically feasible, or physiologically relevant indicate that observations align with known bodily processes.

Physiology studies a wide range of systems, including the circulatory, respiratory, nervous, endocrine, digestive, and musculoskeletal systems, as well as cellular and molecular mechanisms. The field seeks to explain how these systems maintain homeostasis, respond to stress, and sustain life. While physiologically oriented descriptions focus on function, they remain distinct from psychological, ethical, or sociocultural explanations of health and behavior. See also physiology to understand the broader science behind these terms.