anabolic

[ an-uh-bol-ik ]

adjective

, Biology, Physiology.

1. involving or stimulating the building of complex substances from simpler ones as part of the process of metabolism in living organisms ( catabolic ):

   These three essential amino acids have a strong anabolic effect, driving protein synthesis to build muscle.

anabolic

/ ˌænəˈbɒlɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to anabolism

Other Words From

• an·a·bol·i·cal·ly adverb
• hy·per·an·a·bol·ic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of anabolic¹

First recorded in 1875–80; from Greek anabol(ḗ) “a throwing upward,” equivalent to ana- ana- ( def ) + bolḗ “a throw” (compare anabállein “to throw up”) + -ic ( def )

Example Sentences

Sinner, 23, was found to have low levels of clostebol - a banned anabolic steriod - but was found to have no fault or negligence by an independent tribunal.

From BBC

The 28-year-old had played regularly at the four Grand Slams, represented Poland at the 2020 Olympics and reached a career-high ranking when he was told a urine test showed traces of an anabolic steroid.

From BBC

Examples of Schedule III drugs include ketamine, anabolic steroids and testosterone.

From Seattle Times

It moves pot to Schedule III, alongside ketamine and some anabolic steroids, following a recommendation from the federal Health and Human Services Department.

From Seattle Times

The bill’s creators point to studies that have found some supplements secretly tainted with anabolic steroids and banned stimulants.

From Seattle Times