catalysis

noun

ca·​tal·​y·​sis kə-ˈta-lə-səs 

plural catalyses kə-ˈta-lə-ˌsēz 

: a modification and especially increase in the rate of a chemical reaction induced by material unchanged chemically at the end of the reaction

Examples of catalysis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These studies show just how intricate the details of surface chemistry and catalysis can be. — Chris Lee, ArsTechnica, 9 June 2026

In addition to these, the new oven boasts precise temperature control and high-temperature catalysis. — New Atlas, 4 Nov. 2025

The authors note that this outcome is counterintuitive, as it is generally assumed that reactions accelerate when more reactants can reach the catalyst more quickly, pointing instead to a more nuanced underlying principle governing nanoscale catalysis. — Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 3 May 2026

The United States and its allies find themselves at China’s mercy for certain rare earths, including ones that are essential for motors, semiconductors, electroluminescent compounds, optoelectronics, and catalysis. — Glenn Zorpette, IEEE Spectrum, 9 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Greek katalysis dissolution, from katalyein to dissolve, from kata- + lyein to dissolve, release — more at lose

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

catalysis

noun

ca·​tal·​y·​sis kə-ˈtal-ə-səs 

: the change and especially increase in the rate of a chemical reaction caused by a catalyst

Medical Definition

catalysis

noun

ca·​tal·​y·​sis kə-ˈtal-ə-səs 

plural catalyses -ˌsēz 

: a change and especially increase in the rate of a chemical reaction induced by a catalyst