anabolic

What is another word for anabolic? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Adjective — Describing a substance, especially a synthetic hormone related to testosterone, that promotes the growth of muscle and bone.

Synonyms by Meaning

1. adjective

Describing a substance, especially a synthetic hormone related to testosterone, that promotes the growth of muscle and bone.

“He tested positive for an anabolic steroid and lost the title.”

Opposites

catabolic

2. adjective technical

Relating to anabolism, the set of chemical processes by which the body builds larger molecules such as proteins from smaller ones, using energy.

“Sleep and adequate protein put the body in an anabolic state.”

Opposites

catabolic

How to use anabolic

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

anabolic steroids anabolic state anabolic window anabolic effect

Neutral in biology; in everyday use it almost always implies steroids.

Etymology

From Greek anabolē 'a throwing up, building up', from ana- 'up' + ballein 'to throw'.

Full origin of anabolic →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between anabolic and catabolic?

Anabolic processes build tissue up, using energy to make larger molecules such as muscle protein. Catabolic processes break tissue down to release energy. Training breaks muscle down; eating and resting build it back up.

Are anabolic steroids the same as the steroids doctors prescribe for inflammation?

No, and the confusion matters. Anabolic steroids mimic testosterone and build muscle. Corticosteroids such as prednisone reduce inflammation and can actually waste muscle over time. They are different drug classes with different effects.

Are anabolic steroids legal?

In most countries they are prescription-only and possession without one is an offence — they are Class C in the UK and Schedule III in the US. They are also banned by essentially every sporting body.

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Nearby words

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