catalyst

English

/ˈkæt.əl.ɪst/, /ˈkæt.ə.lɪst/

noun
Definitions
  • (chemistry) A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.
  • Someone or something that encourages progress or change.
  • (literature) An inciting incident that sets the successive conflict into motion.
  • (automotive) A catalytic converter.

Etymology

Suffix from English catalysis.

Origin

English

catalysis

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms