Dictionary

enzyme

noun en·zyme \ˈen-ˌzīm\

: a chemical substance in animals and plants that helps to cause natural processes (such as digestion)

Full Definition of ENZYME

:  any of numerous complex proteins that are produced by living cells and catalyze specific biochemical reactions at body temperatures
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Origin of ENZYME

German Enzym, from Middle Greek enzymos leavened, from Greek en- + zymē leaven — more at juice
First Known Use: 1881

Other Biochemistry Terms

bile, biodegradable, capsaicin, keratin, metabolism
ENZYME Defined for Kids

enzyme

noun en·zyme \ˈen-ˌzīm\

Definition of ENZYME for Kids

:  a substance produced by body cells that helps bring about or speed up bodily chemical activities (as the digestion of food) without being destroyed in so doing
Medical Dictionary

enzyme

noun en·zyme \ˈen-ˌzīm\

Medical Definition of ENZYME

:  any of numerous complex proteins that are produced by living cells and catalyze specific biochemical reactions at body temperatures
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