Need another word for Catalyst? Use these synonyms of Catalyst from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
stimulator
motivator
initiator
activator
spark
impetus
incentive
instigator
provocateur
goad
spur
prod
impulse
motivation
encouragement
boost
stimulus
prompt
trigger
accelerator
energizer
dynamizer
inspirer
influencer
facilitator
mediator
intermediary
agent
factor
element
component
ingredient
additive
adjunct
helper
aide
assistant
supporter
backer
promoter
advocate
champion
encourager
motivator
driving force
impeller
propeller.
Meaning of Catalyst
A catalyst is an event or person that precipitates an effect or change.
Definitions
- A substance that speeds up a chemical reaction, or a person or event that precipitates an effect or change.
- A person or thing that precipitates an event or change.
- A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.
Etymology of Catalyst
The word "catalyst" comes from the Greek words "kata" meaning "down" and "lyein" meaning "to loosen", and the word was first used in the 17th century to describe a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction.
Historically, the term "catalyst" was initially used in chemistry to describe a substance that accelerates a chemical reaction, and later its meaning was extended to include a person or event that precipitates an effect or change.
Example Uses
- The new policy has been a catalyst for change in the industry.
- Her speech was a catalyst for the social movement.
- The enzyme acts as a catalyst in the chemical reaction.