catabolize

[ kuh-tab-uh-lahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, ca·tab·o·lized, ca·tab·o·liz·ing.

1. to cause (a nutrient or other substance) to undergo catabolism.

verb (used without object)

, ca·tab·o·lized, ca·tab·o·liz·ing.

1. to be subjected to catabolism.

Word History and Origins

Origin of catabolize¹

First recorded in 1925–30; catabol(ism) + -ize