enzyme

noun

en·​zyme ˈen-ˌzīm How to pronounce enzyme (audio)
: any of numerous complex proteins that are produced by living cells and catalyze specific biochemical reactions at body temperatures

Examples of enzyme in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
However, the researchers emphasized that more investigation is needed to establish the enzyme’s activity. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2026 Peptides are small chains of amino acids that serve as building blocks for proteins and help regulate muscle growth, hormone signaling, enzyme formation and immune function. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 16 Oct. 2026 Instead of a wall switch, there’s a lever next to the faucet and water is injected directly into the disposal along with enzymes that help break down food to protect pipes. — Nina Elder, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 Next, in critical areas, each amino acid chosen needs to be compatible with the formation of the enzyme’s catalytic site. — ArsTechnica, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for enzyme

Word History

Etymology

German Enzym, from Middle Greek enzymos leavened, from Greek en- + zymē leaven — more at juice

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of enzyme was in 1881

Phrases Containing enzyme

Rhymes for enzyme

See All Rhymes for enzyme

Browse Nearby Words

enzymatic
enzyme
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Enzyme.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/enzyme. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

enzyme

noun
en·​zyme ˈen-ˌzīm How to pronounce enzyme (audio)
: any of various complex proteins produced by living cells that bring about or speed up reactions (as in the digestion of food) without being permanently altered
enzymatic
ˌen-zə-ˈmat-ik
adjective
enzymatically
-ˈmat-i-k(ə-)lē
adverb

Medical Definition

enzyme

noun
en·​zyme ˈen-ˌzīm How to pronounce enzyme (audio)
: any of numerous complex proteins that are produced by living cells and catalyze specific biochemical reactions at body temperatures

More from Merriam-Webster on enzyme

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about enzyme

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