reductase

noun

re·​duc·​tase ri-ˈdək-ˌtās How to pronounce reductase (audio)
-ˌtāz
: an enzyme that catalyzes reduction

Examples of reductase in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
An enzyme called 5-alpha reductase changes the hormone into dihydrotestosterone. Rj MacKenzie, Popular Science, 20 Mar. 2025 Summary Simvastatin and atorvastatin are cholesterol-lowering medications classified as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. Phuoc Anh (anne) Nguyen, Pharmd, Ms, Verywell Health, 18 Dec. 2024 The enzyme that has eluded us for so long is now known as bilirubin reductase. Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 27 Jan. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reductase was in 1902

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Cite this Entry

“Reductase.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reductase. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

reductase

noun
re·​duc·​tase -ˌtās, -ˌtāz How to pronounce reductase (audio)
: an enzyme that catalyzes chemical reduction
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