catalytic

adjective

cat·​a·​lyt·​ic ˌka-tə-ˈli-tik How to pronounce catalytic (audio)
: causing, involving, or relating to catalysis
catalytically
ˌka-tə-ˈli-ti-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce catalytic (audio)
adverb

Examples of catalytic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yes, tech tools have always been presented as catalytic—as tools that will push education ahead. — Kamau Bobb october 21, Literary Hub, 21 Oct. 2026 The catalytic insert helped break down acetic acid generated by the waste during the test. — Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 19 Oct. 2026 This allows the catalytic system to efficiently destroy the resulting waste stream. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 19 Oct. 2026 But what’s most galvanizing about YCSE is how that destabilization is enacted on its other on-screen participants, and by the end the audience itself, through the catalytic effects of its later acts. — Gary Baum, HollywoodReporter, 19 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for catalytic

Word History

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of catalytic was in 1836

Phrases Containing catalytic

Rhymes for catalytic

See All Rhymes for catalytic

Browse Nearby Words

catalyte
catalytic
catalytic converter
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Catalytic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catalytic. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

catalytic

adjective
cat·​a·​lyt·​ic ˌkat-ᵊl-ˈit-ik How to pronounce catalytic (audio)
: causing, involving, or relating to catalysis
the catalytic action of an enzyme

Medical Definition

catalytic

adjective
cat·​a·​lyt·​ic ˌkat-ᵊl-ˈit-ik How to pronounce catalytic (audio)
: causing, involving, or relating to catalysis
a catalytic reaction
catalytically
-ˈit-i-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce catalytic (audio)
adverb
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