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Definition of catalytic

catalytic

/ˌkæt.əˈlɪt.ɪk/
cat · a · lyt · ic
Adverb:catalytically
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catalytic Lexical Profile

catalytic Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to or involving the acceleration of a chemical reaction by a substance that is not itself consumed in the process.

Example

"Platinum and palladium are widely used in catalytic converters to reduce toxic exhaust emissions."

2

Serving to initiate, accelerate, or precipitate a significant event, transformation, or development.

Example

"Public outrage over the environmental disaster played a catalytic role in passing stricter safety regulations."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for catalytic

• Nearby Words

cataloger
catalpa
catalyst
catalytic
catalytic converter
catalyze
catamaran

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the 1830s by Swedish chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius alongside 'catalysis', derived from Ancient Greek katalysis ('dissolution'), from kata- ('down') and lyein ('to loosen').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Catalytic. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/catalytic
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