enzyme
EN-zahym
/ˈɛnzaɪm/
A substance produced by a living organism which acts as a catalyst to bring about a specific biochemical reaction.
Enzymes are highly specific; one enzyme usually only does one specific job (like breaking down lactose).
The story behind the word. Coined by Wilhelm Kühne in 1877 from the Greek 'en zyme', meaning 'in yeast'. He chose this because the process of fermentation in yeast was the first place these biological 'workers' were studied.
Word relationships
- catalyst: A catalyst is any substance that speeds up a reaction; an enzyme is specifically a biological catalyst made of protein.
Word family
- enzymatic (adjective): Relating to or caused by an enzyme.
Collocations
- digestive enzyme
- enzyme inhibitor
- catalytic enzyme
Example sentences
- "The enzyme amylase in your saliva begins breaking down starches the moment you start chewing." Digestion
- "Rennet is an enzyme used in cheesemaking to curdle the milk." Food science
Memory hook
Enzymes 'End' the wait for a reaction. The biological key.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'hormones', which are messengers; enzymes are the 'workers' that build or break molecules.
Fun facts
- Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain that breaks down protein—this is why your tongue might tingle when you eat them; the fruit is trying to digest you back!
Related words
Explore more words
metabolism, catalyst, photosynthesis, ferment, catalyze, reagent
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