katabolism Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun breakdown in living organisms of more complex substances into simpler ones together with release of energy
    dissimilation; catabolism; destructive metabolism.

WordNet

Ka*tab"o*lism noun
Etymology
Gr. down + to throw.
Definitions
  1. (Physiol.) Destructive or downward metabolism; regressive metamorphism; -- opposed to anabolism. See Disassimilation.

Webster 1913