Definition

A condition where the body's metabolism is significantly increased, often due to injury or illness.

Example

After the surgery, the patient experienced hypermetabolism, which made it difficult for them to gain weight.

Conversation

I was reading about how hypermetabolism can affect recovery after injuries.

Really? I had no idea that was a thing.

Yeah, it’s interesting how the body speeds up to heal itself.

That makes sense — the body works hard to get back to normal.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypermetabolism is formed from "hyper-" (meaning over or excessive) and "metabolism" (from Greek "metabole", meaning change or transformation). The word describes a state of excessive metabolic activity or an accelerated rate of metabolism.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hyper-' meaning excessive and 'metabolism' referring to the body's process of change or transformation. This helps you remember that hypermetabolism means an excessive rate of metabolic activity.

Visually Confused Words