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

These proteins stick to sections of DNA (typically close to the target gene) and recruit the polymerase enzyme to make an mRNA copy. — Philip Ball, Quanta Magazine, 18 June 2026

However, an enzyme cleaner offers a thorough and efficient solution. — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 18 June 2026

Wash the items a third time with an enzyme detergent that's designed to remove dirt, stains, grease, and oil. — Kathy Barnes, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 June 2026

Chiggers are microscopic mites that cause itchiness by injecting enzymes into the skin, not by biting. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 18 June 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