What does organic mean?
Organic is a versatile word whose central idea is a close relationship with living things and natural processes. In chemistry, an organic compound contains carbon and forms a major part of the chemistry of living organisms; in biology, organic matter consists of once-living material or material derived from living organisms. In food and agriculture, organic describes products made without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetic modification, according to recognized production standards. The word can also describe organizations, systems, or growth that develop naturally and gradually rather than through abrupt or artificial control. Because its implications include naturalness, sustainability, and authenticity, “organic” often carries a positive cultural association even when it is used informally. Its scientific meaning, however, is more specific and should not be confused with a general claim that something is environmentally harmless.
Relating to living organisms, their components, or their naturally occurring chemical compounds; especially, produced without synthetic chemicals or genetic modification.
"Organic farming can improve soil health while reducing exposure to synthetic pesticides."
When used for food or agricultural products, the term is also a regulated certification category with criteria that differ between countries.
A chemical compound containing carbon, especially one derived from living organisms.
"Methane is a simple organic compound composed of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms."
This noun use is specialized and occurs mainly in scientific, chemical, and biological contexts.
The plural is uncommon in general English but can refer collectively to organic compounds, especially in scientific contexts.
"The chapter compares the structures of several organics used as solvents."
What you eat can be organic, but the word also means something far more fundamental: the chemistry of carbon, the element that builds the architecture of life.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does organic come from?
The word comes through French organique from the Greek organikos, meaning “pertaining to an organ or instrument,” ultimately from organon, meaning “instrument” or “tool.” Its modern scientific sense developed in connection with the idea of substances organized as the components of living bodies. The related English words organ, organism, and organize share this Greek root, although their modern meanings have diverged substantially.
Related word forms
How organic is actually used
In chemistry, the term is technical and describes carbon-based compounds. In food and agriculture, it commonly means production without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetic modification, though standards and legal meanings vary by country. In business and organizational contexts, it describes development that is natural, gradual, and self-sustaining rather than imposed through rigid control.