metabolism

metabolism definition - medical

me·tab·o·lism (mĭ-tăbˈə-lĭzˌəm)

noun
  1. The complex of physical and chemical processes occurring within a living cell or organism that are necessary for the maintenance of life. In metabolism some substances are broken down to yield energy for vital processes while other substances, necessary for life, are synthesized.
  2. The functioning of a specific substance, such as water, within the living body.

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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