catalyst

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /ˈkæt.əˌlɪst/

• Audio (Northern California, US)

  (file)

Noun

Singular catalyst

Plural catalysts

1. (chemistry) A substance that makes a chemical reaction happen faster. The catalyst is not changed by the process and can be used again.
   • Antonym: inhibitor
2. (automotive) A catalytic converter.
3. Someone or something that encourages progress or change, or helps it happen.

   I hope the new CEO will be a catalyst for change.

   Communication is a catalyst for peace.