We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Find out more

Subscriber login

Library card login

Other

X Close menu

Dictionary Language resources

catalyst

Syllabification: (cat·a·lyst)

Pronunciation: /ˈkatl-ist/

Translate catalyst | into French | into German | into Italian | into Spanish

Definition of catalyst

noun

a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself undergoing any permanent chemical change.
a person or thing that precipitates an event:the governor’s speech acted as a catalyst for debate