anabolism

American  

[uh-nab-uh-liz-uhm] / əˈnæb əˌlɪz əm /

noun

Biology, Physiology.

1. constructive metabolism; the synthesis in living organisms of more complex substances from simpler ones (opposed to catabolism).

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anabolism British  

/ əˈnæbəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. a metabolic process in which complex molecules are synthesized from simpler ones with the storage of energy; constructive metabolism Compare catabolism

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anabolism Scientific  

/ ə-năb′ə-lĭz′əm /

1. The phase of metabolism in which complex molecules, such as the proteins and fats that make up body tissue, are formed from simpler ones.

2. Compare catabolism

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anabolism Cultural  

1. The chemical reactions that synthesize molecules in metabolism. (Compare catabolism.)

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Discover More

Athletes often attempt to improve their performance by speeding up this molecule-building process through the use of drugs called anabolic steroids, despite the potential health risks involved. This use is outlawed in many athletic competitions, such as the Olympic Games.

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• hyperanabolism
  noun
• anabolic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of anabolism

First recorded in 1885–90; ana- + (meta)bolism

Compare meaning

How does anabolism compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• catabolism vs. anabolism