B2nounhealthscience
US/məˈtæb.ə.lɪzm/
UK/məˈtæb.ə.lɪzm/
the chemical processes in the body that turn food into energy and keep you alive
In context
Exercise can speed up your metabolism and help you burn more calories.
Her metabolism is so fast that she can eat a lot without gaining weight.
Metabolism slows down with age, which is why older people need less food.
Words that go with metabolism
adjective + noun
- fast metabolismHe has a fast metabolism and stays thin.
- slow metabolismA slow metabolism makes it harder to lose weight.
verb + noun
- boost your metabolismA short workout in the morning can boost your metabolism.
- speed up your metabolismEating small meals does not really speed up your metabolism.
- slow down your metabolismCrash diets can slow down your metabolism.
noun + noun
- metabolism rateA higher metabolism rate means the body burns energy faster.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
the metabolism rateCorrect: the metabolic rate