n 1 a  :  the sum of the processes in the buildup and destruction of protoplasm : specif  :  the chemical changes in living cells by which energy is provided for vital processes and activities and new material is assimilated <methods of determining body and tissue -Bull. of the Univ. of Ky.>  - see ANABOLISM CATABOLISM   b  :  the sum of the processes by which a particular substance is handled (as by assimilation and incorporation or by detoxification and excretion) in the living body <the of iodine in the thyroid>   2  :  METAMORPHOSIS 2 - usu. used in combination <holometabolism>  .
 
 
 
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