Meaning & Definition of word "Metabolism"

Metabolism

/məˈtæb.əl.ɪ.zəm/

noun:

  • 1. The chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life, including the conversion of food into energy.
    • Example: Regular exercise can boost your metabolism and help with weight loss.
  • 2. The sum of the chemical reactions that occur in a living organism.
    • Example: His high metabolism allows him to eat a lot without gaining weight.
  • 3. The process of breaking down substances to produce energy and synthesizing new compounds.
    • Example: Metabolism is crucial for growth, reproduction, and maintenance of cellular structures.
  • 4. A term often used to describe the rate at which the body converts food into energy.
    • Example: She has a fast metabolism, which means she needs to eat frequently.
  • 5. The balance between catabolism and anabolism in a living organism.
    • Example: An effective metabolism includes a healthy balance of both catabolic and anabolic processes.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word 'metabolē', meaning 'change' or 'overthrow'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

fast metabolism:

A condition where a person burns calories quickly.

slow metabolism:

A condition where a person burns calories slowly.

metabolic syndrome:

A cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Related Words

anabolism:

The metabolic process that builds up larger molecules from smaller ones.

catabolism:

The metabolic process that breaks down larger molecules into smaller units.

Slang Meanings of metabolism

Meaning: Metabolic rate booster

Example Sentence: I started taking supplements to act as a metabolic rate booster.

Meaning: Metabolic fire

Example Sentence: You need to keep your metabolic fire burning to lose weight effectively.