Osmosensing is an important process that allows cells to recognize changes in their surroundings with regards to the concentration of water and other solutes. Synonyms for this word include osmoreception, osmoregulation, and osmosensitivity. These terms all refer to the ability of cells to monitor their environment and respond accordingly by either taking up or expelling water, depending on the conditions. In essence, osmosensing is a vital component of homeostasis, which is the maintenance of a stable internal environment within the body. Whether a cell is in a hypertonic or hypotonic environment, osmosensing enables it to sense and respond to these changes, ensuring its survival.