catabolic

[ kat-uh-bol-ik ]

adjective

, Biology, Physiology.

1. involving or stimulating the breakdown of complex substances into simpler ones as part of the process of metabolism in living organisms ( anabolic ):

   The protein catabolic rate is the rate at which proteins break down in the body.

Other Words From

• cat·a·bol·i·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of catabolic¹

catabol(ism) ( def ) + -ic

Example Sentences

Reducing anabolic drive increases the catabolic drive, in other words, building of muscle is inhabited.

From New York Times

The first is composed of primary metabolites, which are molecules produced by the catabolic and anabolic reactions that are required for cellular growth and homeostasis.

From Nature

The loss of multiple catabolic pathways has an additive effect on colonization.

From Nature

Well, stress has an effect on cortisol, which is a catabolic hormone.

From US News

The smell of cut grass, for example, comes from a catabolic process.

From Washington Post