catalytic

adjective

cat·​a·​lyt·​ic ˌka-tə-ˈli-tik How to pronounce catalytic (audio)
: causing, involving, or relating to catalysis
catalytically
ˌka-tə-ˈli-ti-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce catalytic (audio)
adverb

Examples of catalytic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some catalytic event—a Reichstag Fire analogue, or another January 6, or a bogus declassification purporting to show foreign hackers changing votes—could be used to manufacture a phony rationale for emergency action. — James Robenalt, Vanity Fair, 27 July 2026 That electric swing, and catalytic moment, buys him a level of grace with a fan base, and franchise, that few athletes ever enjoy. — Mac Engel july 26, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 July 2026 Strengthening local partnerships and creating learning opportunities for families can serve as a catalytic force for transformation. — Felicia Cumings Smith, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026 That process uses a catalytic chemical recycling method to break down polyester into reusable raw materials and was first developed at the San Jose lab. — Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for catalytic

Word History

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of catalytic was in 1836

Phrases Containing catalytic

Rhymes for catalytic

See All Rhymes for catalytic

Browse Nearby Words

catalyte
catalytic
catalytic converter
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Catalytic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catalytic. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

catalytic

adjective
cat·​a·​lyt·​ic ˌkat-ᵊl-ˈit-ik How to pronounce catalytic (audio)
: causing, involving, or relating to catalysis
the catalytic action of an enzyme

Medical Definition

catalytic

adjective
cat·​a·​lyt·​ic ˌkat-ᵊl-ˈit-ik How to pronounce catalytic (audio)
: causing, involving, or relating to catalysis
a catalytic reaction
catalytically
-ˈit-i-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce catalytic (audio)
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on catalytic

Nglish: Translation of catalytic for Spanish Speakers

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