hyaluronidase: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Technical/RareTechnical, Scientific
Quick answer
What does “hyaluronidase” mean?
An enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid.
A glycoside hydrolase enzyme used in medicine to increase tissue permeability, facilitating the absorption of fluids or the spread of injected drugs or anaesthetics.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or spelling differences. Pronunciation differs slightly.
Connotations
Identical scientific and medical connotations.
Frequency
Equally rare outside medical, biochemical, and cosmetic contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “hyaluronidase” in a Sentence
subject: enzyme/doctor/injection | verb: (contains/uses/injects) | object: hyaluronidaseVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Only in business contexts related to pharmaceuticals or cosmetics.
Academic
Used in biochemistry, molecular biology, and medical research papers.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Standard term in medicine, dermatology, cosmetic surgery, and enzymology.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “hyaluronidase”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “hyaluronidase”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hyaluronidase”
- Misspelling as 'hyaluronidase' or 'hialuronidase'. Using it as a verb, e.g., 'They hyaluronidased the area.'
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is commonly used as an 'antidote' to dissolve hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers if complications arise.
It is found in various animal tissues, venom (e.g., bee, snake), and is produced by certain bacteria to aid invasion.
It is generally safe when used medically by trained professionals but, like any drug, carries potential risks and side effects.
No, it is a prescription-only medication in most jurisdictions.
An enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid.
Hyaluronidase is usually technical, scientific in register.
Hyaluronidase: in British English it is pronounced /ˌhʌɪəˌljʊəˈrɒnɪdeɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌhaɪəˌlʊˈrɑːnɪdeɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Hi, Al, you're on an 'aid' that 'ase's (breaks) a 'hyaluron' (hyaluronic acid).'
Conceptual Metaphor
A chemical key that unlocks dense tissue.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of hyaluronidase?