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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Designed with ingredients like wheat germ, vegetable keratin, hyaluronic acid, vitamins B5 and E, minerals and enzymes, their formulation is designed to promote the repair and strengthening of the hair fiber. Jessica Ourisman, Forbes, 24 Oct. 2024 Originally from northern China, it is prized for its probiotic and enzyme content, which aid digestion and balance the microbiome. Jeanne Ballion, Vogue, 22 Oct. 2024 All in the amylase Amylase is a digestive enzyme that breaks down starch into glucose that the body can use for fuel. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 17 Oct. 2024 Some research even suggests that thymol boosts the activity of other antioxidants and enzymes, such as vitamin E and vitamin C.3 May Reduce Inflammation A few in vitro and animal studies have found that thyme and its extracts reduce inflammation. Isabel Vasquez Rd Ldn, Health, 17 Oct. 2024 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 5 Nov. 2024.

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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