Definition

Adjective: * Readily changed or destroyed by heat: Describes a substance, compound, or biological material (like an enzyme or vaccine) that is unstable and loses its structure, properties, or function when exposed to moderately high temperatures.

Usage

The word is a technical term used primarily in scientific fields (chemistry, biochemistry, biology, pharmacology) to describe the heat sensitivity of a material. It is often used in contrast with "thermostable."

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The enzyme is thermolabile and must be stored at 4°C to remain active.
  • Many antibiotics are thermolabile, degrading quickly if not kept cool.
  • A thermolabile vaccine requires an unbroken cold chain from manufacturer to patient.

Advanced Usage

• Comparative/Superlative Forms: While grammatically possible ("more thermolabile," "most thermolabile"), these are rarely used in practice. Scientists typically compare by stating specific temperature thresholds (e.g., "Compound A is thermolabile above 40°C, while compound B is stable up to 60°C").
• In Research Contexts: The term is precise. For example, stating a protein is "thermolabile" is more specific than saying it is "heat-sensitive," as it implies a loss of function upon denaturation.

Variants and Related Words

• Thermolability (noun): The property or quality of being thermolabile.
  • The thermolability of the serum sample compromised the test results.
• Thermostable (adjective): The direct antonym; resistant to change or destruction by heat.
  • Unlike its natural form, the engineered enzyme was thermostable.

Synonyms

• Heat-labile: (Nearly identical in meaning, often used interchangeably in scientific literature).
• Heat-sensitive: (A more general, less technical term).
• Temperature-sensitive: (Broader; can refer to sensitivity to cold or heat).

Antonyms

• Thermostable
• Heat-stable
• Heat-resistant

Adjective

1. (chemistry, physics, biology) readily changed or destroyed by heat