The term "Synthetic Biology" can be traced back to a 1913 paper by W.A.D. in Nature titled "Synthetic Biology and the Mechanisms of Life." Over a century of development, its meaning has diverged significantly from the original concept. In 2000, at the American Chemical Society Annual Meeting, Stanford University’s Kool defined synthetic biology as “the use of the synthetic capabilities of organic chemistry and biochemistry to design non-natural synthetic molecules that perform functions in biological systems.” Today, there are many similar definitions of synthetic biology. For example, Zhang Xian'en, a fellow of the American Institute of Medicine and Biological Engineering, described it as: "Synthetic biology, based on biological sciences, converges disciplines such as chemistry, physics, and information science, integrates engineering principles, designs and modifies natural or synthetic organisms, reveals the laws of life (creation for knowledge), and transforms biological systems for engineering applications (creation for use)."

Guided by basic theoretical principles, synthetic biology employs a "bottom-up" engineering approach, develops enabling technologies, and addresses challenges in the standardization and rational design of biological systems for engineering applications. Its academic system primarily encompasses basic theory, enabling technologies, and innovative applications. Meanwhile, the development of synthetic biology should also focus on the appropriate policy environment, ethical, legal, and regulatory frameworks, and emphasize public engagement and science outreach.