zym(o)-

Enzymes or fermentation.

Greek zumē, leaven.

Enzymes are substances produced by living organisms which act as catalysts to bring about a specific biochemical reaction. Terms include zymase, a mixture of enzymes which catalyse the breakdown of sugars in alcoholic fermentation; zymogen (also called a proenzyme), an inactive substance which is converted into an enzyme when activated by another enzyme; zymurgy, the study or practice of fermentation in brewing, winemaking, or distilling.