enzyme

noun
UK /ˈɛnzaɪm/
US /ˈɛnzaɪm/

A tiny helper in your body that makes food break down faster.

Saliva contains an enzyme that starts breaking down bread as you chew.

SYNONYMS

catalystbiocatalystfermentprotein catalyst

RELATED WORDS

proteindigestioncatalysismetabolismbiology

OTHER MEANINGS

2. Any of various proteins produced by living cells that speed up chemical reactions.

Researchers studied the enzyme responsible for breaking down starch.

3. A substance in laundry detergents that helps remove stains.

This detergent uses enzymes to lift grass stains from clothes.

4. A biological molecule used in food processing and brewing.

Brewers add enzymes to help convert grain starches into sugar.