Definitions

1. adjective

relating to or produced by anabolism, which is the process of building up body tissues through the synthesis of organic substances from inorganic materials

“The anabolic steroids used by bodybuilders can have serious side effects if taken in excess.”

2. noun

a substance that promotes anabolism and is used to treat conditions such as muscle wasting

“The patient’s doctor prescribed an anabolic to help her recover from the illness.”

3. verb

to cause (a substance) to undergo anabolism, especially in order to promote muscle growth or repair

“The anabolic process helped her bones heal faster after the surgery.”