online vocabulary.com

Sociobiological - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Sociobiological refers to the study of social behavior from a biological perspective, examining how genetics and evolution influence interactions among individuals in a species. It combines biology and sociology.

sociobiological

/ˌsoʊ.si.oʊˌbaɪ.əˈlɑː.dʒɪ.kəl/ /ˌsəʊ.si.əʊˌbaɪ.əˈlɒdʒ.ɪ.kəl/

Definition:

Relating to the biological basis of social behavior in animals and humans.

Synonyms:

biosocial, evolutionary behavioral, ethological

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

nonbiological, unnatural

Common Collocations:

sociobiological theory, sociobiological perspective, sociobiological approach

Derivatives:

sociobiologically, sociobiologist

Usage Tips:

Use it to describe behaviors influenced by biological factors in social contexts, often in scientific discussions.

Common Phrases:

nature vs nurture debate, survival of the fittest, genetic predisposition

Etymology:

Combines "socio-" (social) and "biological," first used in mid-20th century to study behavior evolutionarily.

Examples:

  • 1. The sociobiological approach explains altruism in animals.
  • 2. Her research focuses on sociobiological factors in human bonding.
  • 3. Critics argue sociobiological theories oversimplify complex behaviors.
  • 4. The book explores sociobiological roots of aggression.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS