Definition

A type of enzyme that helps break down carbohydrates into simpler sugars.

Example

Amylase is a common carbohydrase found in saliva that starts the digestion of starches.

Conversation

Have you heard about carbohydrase enzymes?

Yeah, I think they help break down carbs, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how they work in our digestion.

Totally! I love learning about how our bodies process food.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Carbohydrase → It is formed from "carbo-" (from Latin "carbo", meaning carbon) and "hydra-" (from Greek "hydor", meaning water) combined with the suffix "-ase" (indicating an enzyme). The word refers to an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates, which are compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, often in the form of sugars and starches.

Memory Tip

Think of 'carbon' ('carbo-') and 'water' ('hydra-') coming together in the form of an enzyme ('-ase') that helps break down carbohydrates.

Visually Confused Words