noun

1. the science that deals with the origin, history, physical characteristics, life processes, habits, etc. of living organisms, as plants and animals, and of viruses: it includes botany, zoology, and microbiology
2. animal and plant life, as of a given area
3. biological history, principles, etc.

Etymology: < Fr or Ger: Fr biologie < Ger; coined (1802) by G. Reinhold (Treviranus), Ger physiologist < Gr bios (see bio-) + -logia, -logy