basal metabolism

noun

, Physiology.

1. the minimal amount of energy necessary to maintain respiration, circulation, and other vital body functions while fasting and at total rest.

basal metabolism

noun

1. the amount of energy required by an individual in the resting state, for such functions as breathing and circulation of the blood See basal metabolic rate

basal metabolism

1. The rate at which an inactive, resting organism expends energy .

Word History and Origins

Origin of basal metabolism¹

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

It has been found by DuBois that the basal metabolism in boys of twelve is 25 per cent.

From Project Gutenberg

This measurement represents the basal metabolism of a man at complete rest, when his oxidative activities are at their lowest ebb.

From Project Gutenberg

To use this table one may seek the basal metabolism of the individual, add 10 per cent.

From Project Gutenberg

Ratios of measured to predicted values were used for basal metabolism (Hbr) and minimum wet thermal conductance (Cmwr).

From Project Gutenberg

Benedict and Emmes have shown by very careful measurements that the basal metabolism of men is about 6% higher than that of women.

From Project Gutenberg