Metabolism

/məˈtæb.əl.ɪ.zəm/

Meaning & Definition

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

Slang Meanings

Metabolic rate booster
I started taking supplements to act as a metabolic rate booster.
Metabolic fire
You need to keep your metabolic fire burning to lose weight effectively.