It’s more like a garment.

The debate over 26 vs 650c vs 29/700c is as much about fit as technical performance. To fit the rider’s body proportions, the bike builder has to consider wheel size, the same way you’d consider the other dimensions of the frame/bike.

The idea that all MTBs should be 26 (or now a 29) or that all roads should be 700c, is a impractical as requiring all runners to wear size 11 shoes, with pads to fit.