Metabolism
/məˈtæb.ə.lɪ.zəm/noun
The chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life.
Did you know?In ancient Greek, metabolism was linked to the concept of 'change' and 'transformation', hinting at the alchemical processes of the body that mirror mystical transformations.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
μεταβολή (metabolē)
“A change or transformation, referring to the act of turning or changing.”
Middle Ages
Latin
metabolismus
“The process of change, particularly in the context of biological transformation.”
17th Century
English
metabolism
“The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms.”
19th Century
English
metabolism
“The overall process of energy transformation and nutrient conversion in living beings.”
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