biomagnetism: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “biomagnetism” mean?
The magnetic properties produced by living organisms or biological systems.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The magnetic properties produced by living organisms or biological systems.
The study of magnetic fields produced by living organisms, or the application of magnetic fields to biological systems for research or therapeutic purposes.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or usage differences. The term is equally technical in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral scientific term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both UK and US English, confined to specialised literature.
Grammar
How to Use “biomagnetism” in a Sentence
The study of biomagnetismResearch into biomagnetismApplications of biomagnetism in XVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “biomagnetism” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The biomagnetic signals were recorded.
- A biomagnetic research centre.
American English
- The biomagnetic fields were mapped.
- Biomagnetic measurement techniques.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in biotech investment contexts discussing novel diagnostic technologies.
Academic
Common in physics, biology, and medical research papers, especially concerning magnetoencephalography (MEG) or cardiac magnetic fields.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Core term in biophysics, medical imaging, and environmental biology (e.g., magnetotactic bacteria).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “biomagnetism”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “biomagnetism”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “biomagnetism”
- Confusing with 'magnetobiology' (study of effects of magnets on biology).
- Using in non-scientific contexts where 'magnetic therapy' or 'magnets in medicine' is meant.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Biomagnetism refers to magnetic fields produced *by* living organisms. Using magnets *on* the body is 'magnet therapy' or 'magneto-therapy', which is a different, often less scientifically established, field.
Current scientific consensus suggests humans do not have a conscious sensory ability to detect weak biomagnetic fields, unlike some animals (e.g., birds, fish). However, our organs (heart, brain) do produce them.
The SQUID (Superconducting Quantum Interference Device) magnetometer is the most sensitive instrument for detecting the extremely weak magnetic fields produced by biological tissues.
No, it is a low-frequency, specialised term used almost exclusively in scientific, medical, and technical contexts. The average native speaker is unlikely to encounter or use it.
The magnetic properties produced by living organisms or biological systems.
Biomagnetism is usually technical/scientific in register.
Biomagnetism: in British English it is pronounced /ˌbaɪəʊˈmæɡnɪtɪz(ə)m/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌbaɪoʊˈmæɡnɪtɪzəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: BIO (life) + MAGNETISM (magnetic fields) = magnetic fields from living things.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE BODY AS A MAGNETIC FIELD GENERATOR.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is 'biomagnetism' MOST commonly used?