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

Often, your regular laundry detergent with enzymes will do the job. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 6 Oct. 2025

The magnesium in chia seeds is involved in numerous enzyme reactions and the transport of other electrolytes, like potassium, into cells. —Joy Emeh, Health, 5 Oct. 2025

Mental health medications Caffeine and certain antidepressants are metabolized by the same liver enzymes. —Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 5 Oct. 2025

Life fast-forwards these reactions with enzymes, enabling microbes to seize the energy that would otherwise dissipate. —Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 3 Oct. 2025

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