PsychologyAugust 31, 2026

chemosensory

KEE-mo-SEN-suh-ree

Definition

Relating to the biological process or ability of an organism to detect and respond to chemical stimuli in the environment, typically involving senses like smell or taste.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'chemeia' (alchemy or chemistry) and the Latin 'sensorium' (sense). It entered scientific usage in the 20th century to describe the sensory reception of chemical substances.

In the news

The term appears in a scientific reference citing studies on a viper's predatory behavior, highlighting the specific biological mechanisms snakes use to track or identify their surroundings.

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Psychology Today

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