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

That buildup can bleach existing pigment from within and damage the enzymes hair needs to keep producing melanin. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

During this process, enzymes begin to break down proteins, such as those found in hot dogs, while carbohydrates from the buns are converted into sugars. — Jennifer Borresen, USA Today, 3 July 2026

There are existing methods for cleaning skeletal remains, such as burial, digestive enzymes, or chemical treatments. — Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 1 July 2026

Pineapple contains bromelain, a group of protein-digesting enzymes, which help your body better digest and absorb protein foods and their associated nutrients. — Amy Brownstein, Verywell Health, 3 July 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