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metabolic

adj. · n.
US //ˌmɛtəˈbɑɫɪk// UK //mˌɛtəbˈɒlɪk// meta·bol·ic
  1. 1 relating to metabolism (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Science

    relating to the way your body uses food and oxygen to create energy.

    pertaining to the chemical processes occurring within a living cell or organism that are necessary for the maintenance of life.

    Example

    Exercise can help increase your metabolic rate, which means you burn more calories.

    Example

    The patient was diagnosed with a metabolic disorder that prevented his body from correctly processing certain types of proteins found in dairy.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the phrase 'metabolic rate' or 'metabolic process'.
  2. 2 relating to change (adj.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Formal Science

    relating to a big change in form, like a caterpillar turning into a butterfly.

    relating to or involving metamorphosis or structural change.

    Example

    The insect goes through several metabolic stages before it becomes an adult.

    Example

    The study tracked the metabolic transformations of the larvae as they transitioned through various instars toward pupation.

    Usage

    Primarily used in biology and entomology to describe physical development.
  3. 3 a supplement (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal Slang

    a pill or powder you take to help your body's energy levels.

    a nutritional or dietary supplement intended to influence the body's chemical processes.

    Example

    He started taking a new metabolic to help him lose weight faster.

    Example

    The athlete was cautioned against using unregulated metabolics that might contain substances banned by the anti-doping agency.

    Teacher's tip

    This noun use is quite niche and mostly found in fitness or bodybuilding communities; 'supplement' is the standard term.
Origin

See metabolism.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated June 20, 2026