ergonomics
4 synonyms for ergonomics, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The study of how equipment, furniture and workplaces should be designed so that people can use them comfortably, safely and efficiently.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
human factors
biotechnology of work
bioengineering
How to use ergonomics
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
office ergonomics
poor ergonomics
ergonomics assessment
cockpit ergonomics
Etymology
Formed from Greek ergon ('work') plus nomos ('law'), on the pattern of 'economics'.
Full origin of ergonomics →Frequently asked questions
Is 'ergonomics' singular or plural?
When it names the field of study it takes a singular verb: 'Ergonomics is taught in the design school.' When it refers to the design qualities of a specific object, a plural verb is normal: 'The ergonomics of this chair are poor.'
What is the difference between ergonomics and human factors?
They cover the same ground and the terms are often used interchangeably. In practice 'ergonomics' leans towards physical fit, such as posture, reach and lifting, while 'human factors' leans towards cognitive fit, such as attention, error and interface design.
What makes a chair ergonomic?
Adjustable seat height so your feet rest flat, lumbar support that follows the curve of your lower back, adjustable armrests that let your shoulders drop, and a seat depth that leaves a gap behind the knees. No chair is ergonomic for everyone, which is why adjustability matters more than any single feature.
