circadian

adjective

cir·​ca·​di·​an sər-ˈkā-dē-ən How to pronounce circadian (audio)
: being, having, characterized by, or occurring in approximately 24-hour periods or cycles (as of biological activity or function)
circadian rhythms in activity

Did you know?

In 1959, a scientist formed the word circadian from the Latin words circa ("about") and dies ("day"), and it caught on quickly. Most often, it's seen and heard in the term circadian rhythm, which refers to the inherent cycle of about 24 hours that appears to control various biological processes, such as sleep, wakefulness, and digestive activity. If you want to impress your friends, you can also use the term circadian dysrhythmia, a fancy synonym of jet lag.

Examples of circadian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Exposing yourself to daylight early in the day can help sync your circadian clock to your new time zone. Regina G. Barber, NPR, 16 May 2024 One was to really be mindful of my circadian rhythms; controlling our sleep-wake cycles are very important. Deborah Vankin, Los Angeles Times, 14 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for circadian 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'circadian.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin circa about + dies day + English -an entry 2 — more at deity

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of circadian was in 1959

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Dictionary Entries Near circadian

Cite this Entry

“Circadian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/circadian. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Medical Definition

circadian

adjective
: being, having, characterized by, or occurring in approximately 24-hour periods or cycles (as of biological activity or function)
circadian periodicity
circadian rhythms in behavior or physiological activity
compare infradian, ultradian

More from Merriam-Webster on circadian

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