'catabolic' definitions:

Definition of 'catabolic'

adjective

Relating to or characterized by catabolism [syn: catabolic, katabolic]

adjective

Characterized by destructive metabolism [syn: catabolic, katabolic] [ant: anabolic]

From: GCIDE

catabolic \catabolic\ adj. [Formerly spelled katabolic.]
1. Of or pertaining to catabolism; as, catabolic processes, which give rise to substances (katastates) of decreasing complexity and increasing stability. [1913 Webster + WordNet 1.5]
2. characterized by destructive metabolism; contrasted with anabolic. [WordNet 1.5]