catalase

/kætəleɪs/

Definitions

1. noun

an enzyme that catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, found in many living organisms.

“The catalase in the plant’s cells helped neutralize the oxygen free radicals.”

2. verb

to break down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, typically through the action of an enzyme.

“The bacteria catalase the peroxide in the polluted water.”

Synonyms

  • hydrogen peroxide decomposer
  • peroxidase

Antonyms

  • inhibitor