Enzyme

Noun

Definition: A substance produced by a living organism, usually a protein, that acts as a catalyst to bring about a specific biochemical reaction.

Synonyms: Catalyst, Bio-catalyst

Antonyms: Inhibitor

Examples:
  • The enzyme amylase helps break down starch into simpler sugars.
  • Enzymes play a vital role in digestion.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of "enzyme" as "en-zyme," with "zyme" being a play on the word "enzyme." This can help you remember that enzymes are catalysts that help facilitate chemical reactions in living organisms.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "enzyme" originated in 1881 from the German term "Enzym" coined by Wilhelm Kühne, a German physiologist, by combining the Greek words "en," meaning "in," and "zyme," meaning "leavened" or "fermented." The term was used to describe the complex substance found in yeast that ferments alcohol.

Historical Usage:

Since its coining, the term "enzyme" has been widely accepted and used in the context of biochemistry and biology.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

Explanation:

Enzymes are organic compounds produced by living organisms, but they are not living organisms themselves. They function as catalysts, helping to speed up biochemical reactions, but are not alive in the traditional sense.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Considering enzymes as living organisms.

Explanation:

Enzymes are organic compounds produced by living organisms, but they are not living organisms themselves. They function as catalysts, helping to speed up biochemical reactions, but are not alive in the traditional sense.

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