anabolic

American  

[an-uh-bol-ik] / ˌæn əˈbɒl ɪk /

adjective

Biology, Physiology.

1. involving or stimulating the building of complex substances from simpler ones as part of the process of metabolism in living organisms (catabolic ).

   These three essential amino acids have a strong anabolic effect, driving protein synthesis to build muscle.

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anabolic British  

/ ˌænəˈbɒlɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to anabolism

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Other Word Forms

• anabolically adverb
• hyperanabolic adjective

Etymology

Origin of anabolic

First recorded in 1875–80; from Greek anabol(ḗ) “a throwing upward,” equivalent to ana- ana- ( def. ) + bolḗ “a throw” (compare anabállein “to throw up”) + -ic ( def. )

Example Sentences

Nandrolone is an anabolic steroid used to treat anemia and osteoporosis - a disease from which bones become fragile.

From BBC

By contrast, larger applied forces, such as those that would occur with repetitive trotting, decreased expression of these anabolic genes.

From Science Daily

Some anabolic steroids have legitimate medical uses, such as treating muscle-wasting diseases, testosterone deficiency and delayed puberty.

From Washington Post

She missed the first six months of last year after testing positive for an anabolic agent.

From BBC

Shelby Houlihan, the American record-holder in the 1,500, was suspended for four years last month after testing positive for nandrolone, an anabolic steroid.

From New York Times