enzyme

noun

en·​zyme ˈen-ˌzīm How to pronounce enzyme (audio)
: any of numerous complex proteins that are produced by living cells and catalyze specific biochemical reactions at body temperatures

Examples of enzyme 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.
This fruit is high in digestive enzymes known as tannins that can slow down the digestion of starch, reducing the amount of carbohydrates your body absorbs from eating. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 22 Dec. 2025 Formulated with enzymes and surfactants, laundry detergent is a versatile cleaning agent handy for other chores in a pinch, including doing the dishes and dissolving clogs. Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Dec. 2025 The National Organization for Rare Disorders states that it is characterized by a complete or partial lack of the carbamoyl phosphate synthetase (CPS) enzyme, one of five that play a role in the breakdown and removal of nitrogen from the body. Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 21 Dec. 2025 When that bursts, the chromosome is made vulnerable to nucleuses — enzymes that can break DNA apart. Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for enzyme

Word History

Etymology

German Enzym, from Middle Greek enzymos leavened, from Greek en- + zymē leaven — more at juice

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of enzyme was in 1881

Cite this Entry

“Enzyme.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/enzyme. Accessed 23 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

enzyme

noun
en·​zyme ˈen-ˌzīm How to pronounce enzyme (audio)
: any of various complex proteins produced by living cells that bring about or speed up reactions (as in the digestion of food) without being permanently altered
enzymatic
ˌen-zə-ˈmat-ik
adjective
enzymatically
-ˈmat-i-k(ə-)lē
adverb

Medical Definition

enzyme

noun
en·​zyme ˈen-ˌzīm How to pronounce enzyme (audio)
: any of numerous complex proteins that are produced by living cells and catalyze specific biochemical reactions at body temperatures

More from Merriam-Webster on enzyme

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