noun

anabolism

uh-NAB-uh-liz-uhm

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Anabolism (noun) means the constructive metabolism of the body, in which simpler substances are built up into more complex ones. Example: “Anabolism uses energy to build larger molecules from smaller building blocks.”

noun

The constructive metabolism of the body, in which simpler substances are built up into more complex ones.

"Anabolism uses energy to build larger molecules from smaller building blocks."

"Muscle growth depends on anabolism outpacing the breakdown of tissue."

"The body shifts between anabolism and catabolism depending on diet and activity."

How to use anabolism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAnabolism is the body's building-up process, turning simple substances into more complex ones.

When to use it

It is a technical, mostly scientific term rather than everyday vocabulary.

Memory tip

Remember it by its opposite: anabolism builds up, catabolism breaks down.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

catabolism metabolism →

Common pairings

anabolism and catabolism rate of anabolism protein anabolism

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “anabolism” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ uses energy to build larger molecules from smaller building blocks.

Etymology

The word comes from Ancient Greek, joining ana- meaning "up" with ballo meaning "I throw", plus the suffix -ism. It was coined on the model of the existing word metabolism.

Origin: Ancient Greek

Antonyms

catabolism

Related words

dissimilation

Rhymes for anabolism

embolism symbolism metabolism alcoholism

See all rhymes for anabolism →

Frequently asked questions

What does anabolism mean?

Anabolism is the constructive side of metabolism, where the body builds larger, more complex molecules from simpler ones.

What is the opposite of anabolism?

The opposite is catabolism, the breaking down of complex substances into simpler ones.

Is anabolism the same as metabolism?

No, anabolism is only one half of metabolism; metabolism also includes catabolism, the breaking-down process.

What is the meaning of anabolism?

"anabolism" (noun) means the constructive metabolism of the body, in which simpler substances are built up into more complex ones.

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