Metabolizing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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metabolizing
[mɛtəˈbɒlɪzaɪŋ ]
Definition
biological process
Metabolizing refers to the chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life. This includes the conversion of food and other substances into energy and building blocks for growth and repair. Metabolizing can be broadly divided into two categories: catabolism, which breaks down molecules to release energy, and anabolism, which uses energy to construct components of cells. The efficiency of metabolizing varies among different organisms and can be influenced by factors such as diet, temperature, and lifestyle.
Synonyms
converting, processing, transforming.
Examples of usage
- The body is constantly metabolizing food to provide energy.
- During exercise, the muscles are metabolizing glucose for fuel.
- Different animals have different rates of metabolizing nutrients.
- Age can affect how efficiently a person is metabolizing substances.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Metabolizing involves two main processes: catabolism (breaking down substances) and anabolism (building up substances).
- Enzymes play a crucial role in metabolism by accelerating biochemical reactions necessary for converting food into energy.
Health
- Different people metabolize food at different rates, influenced by factors such as age, gender, and muscle mass.
- A faster metabolic rate can help with weight management, while a slower rate might require dietary adjustments for health.
Cultural References
- In popular culture, 'boosting metabolism' is often discussed in fitness and wellness communities, affecting diet trends.
- Metabolism is often metaphorically referenced in literature as a 'fueling' process for creativity or productivity.
Psychology
- Studies show that mental states can impact metabolic rates; stress, for instance, can either increase or decrease how quickly the body metabolizes energy.
- Awareness of one's metabolism can lead individuals to make lifestyle changes aimed at improving physical and mental well-being.
Origin of 'metabolizing'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'metabolē', meaning 'change' or 'transformation'.
- It first appeared in the English language in the late 19th century, linked to descriptions of how bodies process food.
The word 'metabolize' originates from the Greek word 'metabole', meaning 'change' or 'exchange', which is derived from 'metaballein', meaning 'to change'. The prefix 'meta-' refers to change, while 'ballein' means 'to throw' or 'to cast'. This term began to be used in a biological context in the late 19th century as scientists started to understand more about the processes that occur in living organisms. Over time, the concept of metabolism evolved, encompassing a wide range of biochemical reactions and pathways that are essential for sustaining life. Today, it encompasses all the substrates and intermediates involved, forming the basis for understanding both health and disease in biological systems.