catalyst
pronunciation
How to pronounce catalyst in British English:
UK [ˈkætəlɪst]
How to pronounce catalyst in American English:
US [ˈkætəlɪst]
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- Noun:
- (chemistry) a substance that initiates or accelerates a chemical reaction without itself being affected
- something that causes an important event to happen
Word Origin
- catalyst (n.)
- "substance which speeds a chemical reaction but itself remains unchanged," 1902, formed in English (on analogy of analyst) from catalysis. Figurative use by 1943.
Example
- 1. The catalyst in the co2 system is even slower .
- 2. The event served as a catalyst for the creation of a more open and empowered culture at the company .
- 3. Tablet computers are a key catalyst in this endeavor .
- 4. For chile , education was the catalyst .
- 5. Lower transport costs were a catalyst .