01 n. The decomposition of complex substances, within the organism, into simpler ones suitable only for excretion, with evolution of energy, -- a…
-
1.
The decomposition of complex substances, within the organism, into simpler ones suitable only for excretion, with evolution of energy, -- a normal nutritional process the reverse of assimilation; downward metabolism; -- now more commonly called catabolism.(Physics) Also: catabolism“The breaking down of already existing chemical compounds into simpler ones, sometimes called disassimilation.” — Martin.