© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

biocatalytic

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //ˌbaɪoʊˈkætəˌlɪtɪk//

KK: /ˌbaɪoʊˈkætəˌlɪtɪk/

adjective
Definition

Relating to or using natural substances, like enzymes, to speed up chemical reactions in living organisms.


Example

The researchers developed a biocatalytic process to produce biofuels more efficiently.


Conversation
Sloth A
I just read about some amazing biocatalytic processes in chemistry.
Sloth B
That sounds interesting! What do they do?
Sloth A
They use natural enzymes to speed up reactions, which is pretty cool.
Sloth B
Wow, I had no idea they were using biocatalytic methods like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
enzymatic
catalytic
biochemical
Antonyms
nonbiological
inorganic
synthetic
Root Explanation

Biocatalytic → It is formed from "bio-" (from Greek "bios", meaning life) and "catalytic" (from Greek "katalusis", meaning to loosen or break down). The word "biocatalytic" refers to processes that involve catalysts derived from living organisms, thus relating to the life processes that facilitate chemical reactions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bio-' meaning life, and 'catalytic' relating to breaking down or loosening substances. This helps you remember that 'biocatalytic' involves life processes that aid in chemical reactions.

Visually Confused Words
catalytic
biolytic
autocatalytic
anticatalytic
Is this page helpful?