enzyme

noun

en·​zyme ˈen-ˌzīm How to pronounce enzyme (audio)
: any of numerous complex proteins that are produced by living cells and catalyze specific biochemical reactions at body temperatures

Examples of enzyme 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.
What to Look for in a Digestive Enzyme Supplements Who should take digestive enzymes? Brianna Peters, Vogue, 21 Apr. 2025 Cancer prevention: Ghee contains vitamins A, E, and K, which help protect cells from damage and may slow cancer growth by affecting certain enzymes. Allison Herries, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2025 Septic tank system treatment pods: on sale for $15.96 Original price: $24.99 (Amazon) These septic treatment pods contain powerful probiotics and bacteria that produce enzymes that help break down organic materials. Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 29 Mar. 2025 The scientists put enzymes and helper molecules that aid in chemical reactions, called cofactors, on to these electrodes. New Atlas, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for enzyme

Word History

Etymology

German Enzym, from Middle Greek enzymos leavened, from Greek en- + zymē leaven — more at juice

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of enzyme was in 1881

Cite this Entry

“Enzyme.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/enzyme. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

enzyme

noun
en·​zyme ˈen-ˌzīm How to pronounce enzyme (audio)
: any of various complex proteins produced by living cells that bring about or speed up reactions (as in the digestion of food) without being permanently altered
enzymatic
ˌen-zə-ˈmat-ik
adjective
enzymatically
-ˈmat-i-k(ə-)lē
adverb

Medical Definition

enzyme

noun
en·​zyme ˈen-ˌzīm How to pronounce enzyme (audio)
: any of numerous complex proteins that are produced by living cells and catalyze specific biochemical reactions at body temperatures

More from Merriam-Webster on enzyme

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