Anabolic: meaning, definitions and examples

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anabolic

 

[ ænə'bɒlɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

biochemical process

Anabolic refers to the metabolic processes that build up molecules in the body, particularly complex molecules from simpler ones. These processes are crucial for growth, tissue repair, and the synthesis of biomolecules. Anabolic activities are characterized by the consumption of energy and are essential for promoting muscle growth and overall physical development. Anabolic reactions are contrasted with catabolic reactions, which involve the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones.

Synonyms

constructive, growth-promoting, synthesis-based

Examples of usage

  • Anabolic steroids help increase muscle mass.
  • The anabolic pathway is vital for recovery after exercise.
  • Eating protein supports anabolic activity in muscles.

Translations

Translations of the word "anabolic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 anabólico

🇮🇳 एनाबॉलिक

🇩🇪 anabol

🇮🇩 anabolik

🇺🇦 анаболічний

🇵🇱 anaboliczny

🇯🇵 アナボリック

🇫🇷 anabolisant

🇪🇸 anabólico

🇹🇷 anabolik

🇰🇷 아나볼릭

🇸🇦 بنائي

🇨🇿 anabolický

🇸🇰 anabolický

🇨🇳 合成代谢的

🇸🇮 anaboličen

🇮🇸 anabólískt

🇰🇿 анаболикалық

🇬🇪 ანაბოლური

🇦🇿 anabolik

🇲🇽 anabólico

Etymology

The term 'anabolic' is derived from the Greek word 'anabole', which means 'a throwing up' or 'a building up'. This word combines 'ana-', meaning 'up' or 'throughout', and 'ballein', which means 'to throw'. The use of 'anabolic' in scientific contexts began in the early 20th century as researchers explored metabolic processes in living organisms. Initially, it was used in relation to the growth of tissue and the synthesis of complex molecules from smaller units. Over time, 'anabolic' became a key term in fields such as biochemistry, sports medicine, and bodybuilding, where it is often associated with muscle growth and the use of anabolic steroids to enhance physical performance.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,155, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.