SINCE 1828
anabolic
adjective
an·a·bol·ic
| \ ˌa-nə-ˈbä-lik
\
\
Definition of anabolic
: marked by or promoting metabolic activity concerned with the biosynthesis of complex molecules (such as proteins or nucleic acids) : relating to, characterized by, or stimulating anabolism
anabolic agents anabolic therapy to promote bone formation If the anabolic and catabolic processes are in balance, tissue remains intact and good health is sustained. But if the rate of decay is only a little faster than the rate of repair, there is a net loss of healthy tissue …— Paul Clayton
— see also anabolic steroid
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on anabolic
What made you want to look up anabolic? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Farm Idioms Quiz
-
- What does 'poke' refer to in the expression 'pig in a poke'?
Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
Share anabolic
Resources for anabolic