bioassay

noun

bio·​as·​say
ˌbī-(ˌ)ō-ˈa-ˌsā,
-a-ˈsā
: determination of the relative strength of a substance (such as a drug) by comparing its effect on a test organism with that of a standard preparation
bioassay transitive verb

Examples of bioassay in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The key premise in using bioassays in animals is that researchers can use the results to help understand the chemical’s safety for people. Brad Reisfeld, The Conversation, 12 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1911, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bioassay was in 1911

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Cite this Entry

“Bioassay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bioassay. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

bioassay

noun
bio·​as·​say -ˈas-ˌā, -a-ˈsā How to pronounce bioassay (audio)
: determination of the relative strength of a substance (as a drug) by comparing its effect on a test organism with that of a standard preparation
bioassay transitive verb

More from Merriam-Webster on bioassay

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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