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

Most studies have shown that l-theanine provides a thermogenic response in mice studies, which lends promise that this ingredient will work as a thermogenic to boost metabolism and burn fat. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 6 Apr. 2024

Thyroid hormone aids in several bodily functions, including growth and metabolism. —Barbie Cervoni, Health, 2 Apr. 2024

The metabolism of fresh posts stepped up in early March, shortly after NPR and Floodlight first sent a series of queries about the Standard to Chevron and Singer for this story. —David Folkenflik, NPR, 28 Mar. 2024

The mushroom genes essentially compel the plant’s metabolism to reroute itself through a light-emitting process before carrying on with its tasks. —Zoë Schlanger, The Atlantic, 19 Mar. 2024

This hormone plays a key role in cell repair and metabolism. —Nick Blackmer, Verywell Health, 11 Mar. 2024

Our experts share that lip flips typically last an average of 2 to 4 months, while dermal fillers typically last 6 to 12 months (possibly longer, depending on the patient’s metabolism). Passport: Explore the finest destinations and experiences around the world in the Forbes Passport newsletter. —Dahvi Shira, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2024

Its metabolism would eventually slow down and then cease. —Zoë Schlanger, The Atlantic, 19 Mar. 2024

Seeking bright mornings and dark evenings helps ensure your daily rhythms of alertness, metabolism, and strength, among other aspects of your physiology, peak at the right times. —TIME, 9 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

metabol(ic) + -ism, after French métabolisme or German Metabolismus

First Known Use

1878, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing metabolism

• basal metabolism

Kids 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

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