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

catabolism

/ kə-tăb′ə-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 .)

Derived Forms

• catabolic, adjective
• ˌcataˈbolically, adverb

Other Words From

• cat·a·bol·ic [kat-, uh, -, bol, -ik], adjective
• hy·per·ca·tab·o·lism noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of catabolism¹

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

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.

From Popular-Science

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

From Popular-Science

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

In catabolism, cells break down those large molecules to release energy and dispose of waste.

From The Daily Beast

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

From Project Gutenberg

In catabolism, the worn particles from the cells, and the dead cells no longer useful are broken up and thrown out of the body.

From Project Gutenberg

The essence of inflammation would appear to be destructive dis-assimilation with intense 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

Consider, on the other hand, a centre of catabolism, where the molecules are being broken up into fragments or smaller groups.

From Project Gutenberg