catalyze

[ kat-l-ahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, cat·a·lyzed, cat·a·lyz·ing.

1. to act upon by catalysis.

catalyze

/ kăt′l-īz′ /

1. To modify, especially to increase, the rate of a chemical reaction through the action of a catalyst.

Other Words From

• cata·lyzer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of catalyze¹

First recorded in 1885–90; cataly(sis) + (-i)ze

Example Sentences

So Chimento and Aplin wanted to know if there was an ingredient that would catalyze social learning, allowing animals to more efficiently realize its rewards.

From Science Daily

Members of the new "Governors Safeguarding Democracy" will harness their collective powers to "catalyze collaboration across state lines," Pritzker said in a call with journalists reported by the Chicago Sun-Times.

From Salon

But the focus is on something beyond partisanship — relationships and how they can catalyze change.

From Los Angeles Times

In the current moment, long-term shifts in the global economy and labor markets, automation and new technologies like AI and the ongoing societal transformations catalyzed by feminism have challenged those pillars of masculine identity.

From Salon

Another word for “rile” is “catalyze,” which is what Reagan hoped to do to the rumblings of change behind the Iron Curtain.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• assemble
• marshal
• organize
• prepare