Definition

Relating to a chemical process in which water is used to break down a compound.

Example

The hydrolytic reaction is essential for digestion in the human body.

Conversation

I recently read about hydrolytic reactions in my chemistry book.

Oh really? What does that involve?

It’s about how water can break down compounds, which is pretty cool.

That sounds interesting! I never knew water could do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hydrolytic → It is formed from "hydro-" (from Greek "hydor", meaning water) and "lytic" (from Greek "lytikos", meaning able to loosen or dissolve). The word "hydrolytic" refers to the ability to loosen or dissolve substances in water.

Memory Tip

Think of 'water' ('hydro-') being able to 'loosen' or 'dissolve' ('lytic') things — that's what hydrolytic means.

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