1. the chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life, including breaking down food for energy and building up tissues
Usage: biology
2. the rate at which the body burns calories and uses energy

Examples

• Regular exercise can boost your metabolism.
• People with a fast metabolism tend to stay thin more easily.
• The patient’s metabolism slowed down due to the medication.
• Plants have a different metabolism than animals.
• Her metabolism changed as she got older.
• The doctor explained how metabolism affects weight loss.
• Certain foods can temporarily increase your metabolism.