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Hydrolyze: meaning, definitions and examples

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hydrolyze

 

[ ˈhaΙͺ.drΙ™.laΙͺz ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

chemical process

To hydrolyze is to split a molecule by reaction with water, typically involving the breaking of chemical bonds. This process is essential in various biochemical reactions, such as the digestion of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, where compounds are broken down into simpler forms.

Synonyms

break down, decompose, dissolve

Examples of usage

  • Enzymes can hydrolyze starch into glucose.
  • The chemical reaction will hydrolyze the ester into acid and alcohol.
  • Hydrolyzing proteins results in amino acids.

Etymology

The term 'hydrolyze' is derived from the combination of the Greek word 'hydro', meaning 'water', and the Greek word 'lysis', which means 'a loosening' or 'to break apart'. The concept has been used since the early 19th century in the field of chemistry to describe a reaction involving water that results in the decomposition of a substance. The first recorded use of the term hydrolyze can be traced back to scientific literature that began exploring chemical reactions in an aqueous environment. Since then, the understanding and application of hydrolysis have expanded, playing a critical role in various scientific domains, including biochemistry, environmental chemistry, and food science.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,173 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.