catalyst

Definition

A catalyst is something that speeds up or causes a change without itself being changed. It is often used in science for chemicals, but also in everyday language for people or events that trigger big changes.

Etymology

From 'catalysis', coined in the 19th century from Greek 'kata-' meaning 'down' or 'completely' and 'lysis' meaning 'loosening'. The idea was of a process that 'loosens' or breaks things apart to make reactions happen more easily.

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