metaboly
/mɪˈtabəli/ /mɪˈtab(ə)li/ /mɛˈtabəli/noun
Biology. The changes of shape characteristic of protists with a firm but flexible pellicle; euglenoid movement.
Origin
Late 19th century (in an earlier sense). Probably from German Metabolie from ancient Greek μεταβολή change + ie.