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
Curcumin may also boost your metabolism and improve insulin resistance.21 More human studies are needed to determine its effectiveness.
—
Lindsey Desoto, Health, 25 Feb. 2025
Products containing iron phosphate interfere with the slug’s metabolism and are better options around pets and wildlife.
—Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 25 Feb. 2025
Proponents also claim that the acetic acid found in apple cider vinegar prevents fat from storing in your body and improves your metabolism.
—Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 24 Feb. 2025
Brain changes that start years before dementia symptoms appear may affect metabolism, appetite, mobility, and daily function, Dr. Wu says.
—Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 12 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for metabolism
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.
Lindsey Desoto, Health, 25 Feb. 2025
Products containing iron phosphate interfere with the slug’s metabolism and are better options around pets and wildlife.
—Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 25 Feb. 2025
Proponents also claim that the acetic acid found in apple cider vinegar prevents fat from storing in your body and improves your metabolism.
—Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 24 Feb. 2025
Brain changes that start years before dementia symptoms appear may affect metabolism, appetite, mobility, and daily function, Dr. Wu says.
—Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 12 Feb. 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 3 Mar. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share