proteolysis

noun

pro·​te·​ol·​y·​sis ˌprō-tē-ˈä-lə-səs How to pronounce proteolysis (audio)
: the hydrolysis of proteins or peptides with formation of simpler and soluble products

Examples of proteolysis in a Sentence

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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.
The three primary reactions that define cheese ripening are glycolysis, proteolysis, and lipolysis. — Ashton Yoon, Discover Magazine, 26 Sep. 2017 This action of protein breakdown (proteolysis) determines the structure and sensory properties of Parmigiano Reggiano and its high digestibility. — John Mariani, Forbes, 13 May 2021

Word History

Etymology

proteo- + -lysis

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of proteolysis was in 1880

Rhymes for proteolysis

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Browse Nearby Words

proteoglycan
proteolysis
proteolytic
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Cite this Entry

“Proteolysis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proteolysis. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

proteolysis

noun
pro·​te·​ol·​y·​sis ˌprōt-ē-ˈäl-ə-səs How to pronounce proteolysis (audio)
plural proteolyses -ˌsēz How to pronounce proteolysis (audio)
: the hydrolysis of proteins or peptides with formation of simpler and soluble products (as in digestion)

More from Merriam-Webster on proteolysis

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about proteolysis

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