Enzyme
/ˈɛn.zaɪm/noun
A protein or RNA molecule that speeds up a biochemical reaction without being consumed.
Did you know?German physiologist Wilhelm Kühne introduced the term in 1878, adapting Ancient Greek language associated with leavening and fermentation.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἐν ζύμῃ (en zýmē)
“In leaven; within fermenting material”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ζύμη (zýmē)
“Leaven, yeast, or fermenting substance”
19th Century
German
Enzym
“A substance involved in fermentation; coined as a scientific term”
1878
English
enzyme
“A biological substance that causes or supports fermentation”
Modern English
English
enzyme
“A biological catalyst that accelerates chemical reactions”