metabolism
noun
me·tab·o·lism
mə-ˈta-bə-ˌli-zəm 
1
a
: the sum of the processes in the buildup and destruction of protoplasm
specifically
: the chemical changes in living cells by which energy is provided for vital processes and activities and new material is assimilated (see assimilate entry 1 sense 1b)
Regular exercise can help to increase your metabolism.
b
: the sum of the processes by which a particular substance is handled in the living body
c
: the sum of the metabolic activities taking place in a particular environment
the metabolism of a lake
2
: metamorphosis sense 2
—usually used in combination
holometabolism
Examples of metabolism in a Sentence
studying the metabolisms of various organisms
Recent Examples on the Web
This is because of effects on metabolism, appetite, and your body’s energy use.
—
Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 31 July 2025
Nature’s methods The idea of robotic metabolism combines various concepts in AI and robotics.
—Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 27 July 2025
Often referred to as the gut-brain axis, this collection of nerve pathways constantly sends signals back and forth that can inform our metabolism, gastrointestinal issues, and even our mental health.
—Stephanie Edwards, Discover Magazine, 23 July 2025
Ethanol or acetaldehyde sensitivity In people with alcohol intolerance, the body lacks the enzyme ALDH2 needed to break down acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism.
—Lauryn Higgins, Time, 22 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for metabolism
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Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 31 July 2025
Nature’s methods The idea of robotic metabolism combines various concepts in AI and robotics.
—Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 27 July 2025
Often referred to as the gut-brain axis, this collection of nerve pathways constantly sends signals back and forth that can inform our metabolism, gastrointestinal issues, and even our mental health.
—Stephanie Edwards, Discover Magazine, 23 July 2025
Ethanol or acetaldehyde sensitivity In people with alcohol intolerance, the body lacks the enzyme ALDH2 needed to break down acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism.
—Lauryn Higgins, Time, 22 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for metabolism
Cite this Entry
“Metabolism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/metabolism. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
metabolism
noun
me·tab·o·lism
mə-ˈtab-ə-ˌliz-əm
1
: the processes essential for life by which the complex substances in the cells of living things are built up or broken down
2
: the processes by which a particular substance (as iodine) is handled in the living body
Medical Definition
metabolism
noun
me·tab·o·lism
mə-ˈtab-ə-ˌliz-əm
1
a
: the sum of the processes in the buildup and destruction of protoplasm
specifically
: the chemical changes in living cells by which energy is provided for vital processes and activities and new material is assimilated
methods of determining body and tissue metabolism —Bulletin of the University of Kentucky
see anabolism, catabolism
Bulletin of the University of Kentucky
b
: the sum of the processes by which a particular substance is handled (as by assimilation and incorporation or by detoxification and excretion) in the living body
the metabolism of iodine in the thyroid
2
: metamorphosis sense 2
—usually used in combination
holometabolism
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