anabolic

adjective

an·​a·​bol·​ic ˌa-nə-ˈbä-lik 

: marked by or promoting metabolic activity concerned with the biosynthesis of complex molecules (such as proteins or nucleic acids) : relating to, characterized by, or stimulating anabolism

anabolic agents

anabolic therapy to promote bone formation

If the anabolic and catabolic processes are in balance, tissue remains intact and good health is sustained. But if the rate of decay is only a little faster than the rate of repair, there is a net loss of healthy tissue …

—Paul Clayton

see also anabolic steroid

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing anabolic

• anabolic steroid