Adipolytic \Ad`i*po*lyt"ic\, a. [L. adeps, adipis, fat + Gr. ?
to loose.] (Chem.)
Hydrolyzing fats; converting neutral fats into glycerin and
free fatty acids, esp. by the action of an enzyme; as,
adipolytic action. Contrast {saponify}, to hydrolyze fat by
the action of an alkali.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]