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catabolism
[ kuh-tab-uh-liz-uhm ]
noun
- destructive metabolism; the breaking down in living organisms of more complex substances into simpler ones, with the release of energy ( anabolism ).
catabolism
/ kə-tăb′ə-lĭz′əm /
- The phase of metabolism in which energy, in the form of ATP, is produced by the breakdown of complex molecules, such as starches, proteins and fats, into simpler ones.
- Compare anabolism
catabolism
- Biochemical reactions that break down molecules in metabolism . Molecules may be broken down to gain their energy or to prepare them for disposal from the body. ( Compare anabolism .)
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Derived Forms
- ˌcataˈbolically, adverb
- catabolic, adjective
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Other Words From
- cat·a·bol·ic [kat-, uh, -, bol, -ik], adjective
- hy·per·ca·tab·o·lism noun
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Word History and Origins
Origin of catabolism1
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Word History and Origins
Origin of catabolism1
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Example Sentences
In this way, anabolism and catabolism exist in balance with each other and are the ying and the yang of metabolism.
In catabolism, cells break down those large molecules to release energy and dispose of waste.
The processes concerned in metabolism are chiefly those of building up, “anabolism,” and breaking down, “catabolism.”
In catabolism, the worn particles from the cells, and the dead cells no longer useful are broken up and thrown out of the body.
The essence of inflammation would appear to be destructive dis-assimilation with intense catabolism.
Similar considerations as to the formation and breaking up of the molecules in anabolism and catabolism apply to polymerization.
Consider, on the other hand, a centre of catabolism, where the molecules are being broken up into fragments or smaller groups.
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