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metabolize

verb

/məˈtæb əˌlaɪz/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of metabolize

To convert substances, such as food, drugs, or other chemicals, into different compounds through various biochemical reactions.
"Our digestive system helps to metabolize food into nutrients."

Detailed meaning of metabolize

When an organism metabolizes a substance, it undergoes chemical changes that allow for the absorption, transformation, utilization, and elimination of that substance within the body. Metabolism involves a series of enzymatic reactions that break down complex molecules into simpler ones or build complex molecules from simpler ones, depending on the specific needs of the body. This process occurs within cells and is essential for maintaining vital functions, such as energy production, growth, repair, and the removal of waste products. Metabolizing is a dynamic and intricate process that varies depending on factors like age, genetics, overall health, and environmental factors. It is a fundamental aspect of life, allowing organisms to extract energy and nutrients from their surroundings while maintaining internal balance and homeostasis.

Example sentences containing metabolize

1. The bacteria in our gut metabolize the food we cannot digest.
2. Certain types of snakes metabolize their prey slowly, taking days to complete the process.
3. Bees metabolize nectar to produce honey.
4. Some plants metabolize sunlight in a process known as photosynthesis.
5. Doctors study how our bodies metabolize certain medications.
6. Lactose intolerant individuals cannot properly metabolize dairy products.

History and etymology of metabolize

The verb 'metabolize' is derived from the noun 'metabolism' and the suffix '-ize,' which is commonly used to form verbs indicating a process or action. As discussed earlier, 'metabolism' comes from the Greek word 'metabolē,' meaning 'change' or 'transformation.' When combined with the '-ize' suffix, 'metabolize' signifies the action of undergoing or facilitating metabolic processes. In the context of biology and physiology, 'metabolize' refers to the intricate biochemical reactions within living organisms that convert substances like food, drugs, or other chemicals into different compounds necessary for energy production, growth, and various physiological functions. The etymology of 'metabolize' reflects its role as a verb that encapsulates the dynamic and transformative nature of metabolic processes essential for sustaining life.

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Further usage examples of metabolize

1. Many fungi metabolize dead organic matter, playing a crucial role in decomposition.
2. People who have faster metabolisms metabolize food more quickly.
3. Nutritionists can suggest foods that our bodies metabolize into energy efficiently.
4. Certain types of algae metabolize carbon dioxide, helping to clean the air.
5. Over time, humans have evolved to metabolize different types of foods.
6. Newborns metabolize food differently than adults, necessitating a special diet.
7. Rabbits metabolize their food twice to extract maximum nutrients.
8. Plants metabolize water and carbon dioxide into oxygen and glucose during photosynthesis.
9. Different individuals metabolize caffeine at different rates, which explains the varying effects.
10. Cells metabolize glucose to generate ATP, the body's main energy source.
11. Diabetics need insulin to help their bodies metabolize sugar.
12. Birds metabolize their food quickly due to their high metabolic rates.
13. Camels metabolize fat stored in their humps to survive in the desert.
14. Some species of bacteria can metabolize oil, offering potential solutions for oil spills.
15. The cells in our body metabolize oxygen to produce ATP.
16. The enzyme in saliva helps to metabolize starches in our mouth.
17. Certain medications may take time to metabolize and become effective.
18. The kidneys metabolize and excrete waste products from the body.
19. Certain foods contain compounds that can boost the body's ability to metabolize fat.