Definition

A type of enzyme that helps break down fats into smaller molecules like glycerol and fatty acids.

Example

Lipase is essential for digesting dietary fats in the body.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of lipase?

Yeah, I think it's some kind of enzyme, right?

Exactly! It helps break down fats in our body.

That's pretty cool, I never knew how important it was.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lipase → It is formed from "lip" (from Greek "lipos", meaning fat) and "-ase" (a suffix used in biochemistry to denote enzymes). The word "lipase" refers to an enzyme that breaks down fats.

Memory Tip

Think of 'lip' meaning fat and '-ase' indicating an enzyme — so lipase is an enzyme that works on fats.

Visually Confused Words