What does lipolysis mean?
Lipolysis is the process by which fats are broken down, most often through enzymatic reactions that release fatty acids and glycerol from stored triglycerides. In physiology, it describes how the body mobilizes fat stores for energy, and it can be influenced by hormones, exercise, fasting, and nutritional conditions. In less technical contexts, the term may simply mean the reduction of body fat, although this usage can imply that fat is being actively broken down and used. Lipolysis is important in metabolism, weight regulation, and the study of metabolic disorders. It is a technical term best suited to scientific, medical, fitness, and nutrition writing rather than general conversation, where “burning fat” is more usual.
nounThe chemical breakdown of fats into fatty acids and glycerol, especially through the action of enzymes. It can also refer more generally to the reduction or destruction of body fat.
- The enzymatic breakdown of fats into fatty acids and glycerol.
- The reduction or destruction of body fat, especially through increased metabolic activity.
"Exercise can stimulate lipolysis and help the body mobilize stored fat for energy."
"The study examined how certain hormones influence lipolysis in adipose tissue."
"Rapid lipolysis can provide additional energy during prolonged exercise."
The plural is used in technical writing, though the singular form is much more common.
"The researchers measured several lipolyses in cultured fat cells."
Lipolysis is the body’s biochemical拆解 process for mobilizing stored fat, turning fat stores into usable fuel.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lipolysis come from?
The word combines the combining form lipo-, derived from Greek lipos, meaning fat, with lysis, a Greek word meaning loosening or dissolution. Together they describe the dissolving or breakdown of fat. Its components are reflected in related scientific terms such as lipid, lipophilic, and lipase.
Related word forms
How lipolysis is actually used
In physiology and biochemistry, lipolysis usually refers to the breakdown of triglycerides or other lipids. In general and fitness contexts, it often means the release and use of stored body fat. The term is technical and is more common in scientific and medical writing than in everyday conversation.