metabolism
noun
me·tab·o·lism
mə-ˈta-bə-ˌli-zəm 
1
a
: the sum of the processes in the buildup and destruction of protoplasm
specifically
: the chemical changes in living cells by which energy is provided for vital processes and activities and new material is assimilated (see assimilate entry 1 sense 1b)
Regular exercise can help to increase your metabolism.
b
: the sum of the processes by which a particular substance is handled in the living body
c
: the sum of the metabolic activities taking place in a particular environment
the metabolism of a lake
2
: metamorphosis sense 2
—usually used in combination
holometabolism
Examples of metabolism in a Sentence
studying the metabolisms of various organisms
Recent Examples on the Web
This represents a significant leap toward dentistry as a comprehensive system of intervention, supporting overall health by enhancing immunity, metabolism and even mood regulation.
—
Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 4 July 2025
In a study in eLife published around a decade ago, UT Southwestern researchers determined that the overproduction of FGF21 improved metabolisms and extended lifespans in mice.
—Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 2 July 2025
Traveling through the bloodstream to the brain, bones, blood vessels, breasts and other organs with receptors, hormones affect bone and heart health, metabolism and overall well-being.
—Karina Zaiets, USA Today, 30 June 2025
They are also known to be endocrine disruptors, chemicals that interfere with our endocrine systems, which control the body’s hormones—such as insulin, testosterone, and estrogen—and numerous bodily functions, including metabolism and blood sugar regulation.
—Ani Freedman, Fortune, 26 June 2025
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Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 4 July 2025
In a study in eLife published around a decade ago, UT Southwestern researchers determined that the overproduction of FGF21 improved metabolisms and extended lifespans in mice.
—Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 2 July 2025
Traveling through the bloodstream to the brain, bones, blood vessels, breasts and other organs with receptors, hormones affect bone and heart health, metabolism and overall well-being.
—Karina Zaiets, USA Today, 30 June 2025
They are also known to be endocrine disruptors, chemicals that interfere with our endocrine systems, which control the body’s hormones—such as insulin, testosterone, and estrogen—and numerous bodily functions, including metabolism and blood sugar regulation.
—Ani Freedman, Fortune, 26 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for metabolism
Cite this Entry
“Metabolism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/metabolism. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
metabolism
noun
me·tab·o·lism
mə-ˈtab-ə-ˌliz-əm
1
: the processes essential for life by which the complex substances in the cells of living things are built up or broken down
2
: the processes by which a particular substance (as iodine) is handled in the living body
Medical Definition
metabolism
noun
me·tab·o·lism
mə-ˈtab-ə-ˌliz-əm
1
a
: the sum of the processes in the buildup and destruction of protoplasm
specifically
: the chemical changes in living cells by which energy is provided for vital processes and activities and new material is assimilated
methods of determining body and tissue metabolism —Bulletin of the University of Kentucky
see anabolism, catabolism
Bulletin of the University of Kentucky
b
: the sum of the processes by which a particular substance is handled (as by assimilation and incorporation or by detoxification and excretion) in the living body
the metabolism of iodine in the thyroid
2
: metamorphosis sense 2
—usually used in combination
holometabolism
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