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View synonyms for catabolism

catabolism

[ kuh-tab-uh-liz-uhm ]

noun

, Biology, Physiology.
  1. destructive metabolism; the breaking down in living organisms of more complex substances into simpler ones, with the release of energy ( anabolism ).


catabolism

/ ˌkætəˈbɒlɪk; kəˈtæbəˌlɪzəm /

noun

  1. a metabolic process in which complex molecules are broken down into simple ones with the release of energy; destructive metabolism Compare anabolism
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


catabolism

/ kə-tăbə-lĭz′əm /

  1. 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.
  2. Compare anabolism


catabolism

  1. 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

  • catabolic, adjective
  • ˌcataˈbolically, adverb
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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

First recorded in 1875–80; from Greek katabol(ḗ) “a throwing down,” equivalent to kata- prefix meaning “down, against, back” ( cata- ) + bolḗ “a throw”; compare katabállein “to throw down”) + -ism
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Word History and Origins

Origin of catabolism1

C19 katabolism, from Greek katabolē a throwing down, from kataballein, from kata- down + ballein to throw
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Compare Meanings

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

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Example Sentences

People’s food intake often slumps when they are sent home, but with inflammation and catabolism resolving, it’s when protein and other nutritional interventions, as well as physical activity, are likely to be especially effective.

During muscle catabolism, proteins stored in muscle tissue are broken down into smaller molecules called amino acids and energy is released.

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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cataboliccatabolite