anabolism

[ uh-nab-uh-liz-uhm ]

noun

, Biology, Physiology.

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

anabolism

/ əˈnæbəˌlɪzəm /

noun

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

anabolism

/ 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

anabolism

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

Notes

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 Words From

• an·a·bol·ic [an-, uh, -, bol, -ik], adjective
• hy·per·a·nab·o·lism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of anabolism¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of anabolism¹

C19: from ana- + ( meta ) bolism

Example Sentences

In this way, anabolism and catabolism exist in balance with each other and are the ying and the yang of metabolism.

From The Daily Beast

Anabolism requires the input of energy, in the form of food calories, and is the process by which the body stores energy.

From The Daily Beast

Anabolism, the formation of more complex chemical bodies by the agency of protoplasm, 86.

From Project Gutenberg

In the processes of anabolism the products absorbed are built into the tissues and cells of the body.

From Project Gutenberg

The processes concerned in metabolism are chiefly those of building up, “anabolism,” and breaking down, “catabolism.”

From Project Gutenberg

Similar considerations as to the formation and breaking up of the molecules in anabolism and catabolism apply to polymerization.

From Project Gutenberg

Of course this may be a matter of anabolism, pure and simple.

From Project Gutenberg