1. relating to or promoting anabolism, the metabolic process that builds up molecules in living organisms
Usage: biology; medicine
2. relating to anabolic steroids or their muscle-building effects
Usage: sports; fitness

Examples

• The anabolic phase of metabolism helps repair muscle tissue after exercise.
• Protein synthesis is an important anabolic process in the body.
• Athletes were tested for anabolic steroid use.
• The supplement claimed to have anabolic effects on muscle growth.
• Anabolic reactions require energy to build complex molecules.
• The doctor explained the difference between anabolic and catabolic processes.