enzyme

noun

en·​zyme ˈen-ˌzīm 

: 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

Enhancing an enzyme’s plastic-degrading speed typically required extensive genetic modifications that compromised its structural integrity. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 21 Sep. 2026

Orchids lack the enzymes and microbes to break down coffee grounds into usable nutrients. — Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Sep. 2026

Kiwis also contain a natural digestive enzyme called actinidin that helps food move smoothly along the digestive tract,1 which can prevent constipation. — Eleesha Lockett, Verywell Health, 18 Sep. 2026

The best scrubs featured physical exfoliants, either salt or sugar, plus chemical exfoliants like AHAs, BHAs, and enzymes. — Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 14 Sep. 2026

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

Phrases Containing enzyme

• angiotensin converting enzyme
• enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
• restriction enzyme

Rhymes for enzyme

• airtime
• bedtime
• daytime
• downtime
• halftime
• lifetime
• longtime
• lunchtime
• mealtime
• meantime
• nighttime
• noontime

Kids Definition

enzyme

noun

en·​zyme ˈen-ˌzīm 

: 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 

: any of numerous complex proteins that are produced by living cells and catalyze specific biochemical reactions at body temperatures