Zymogen is a term that refers to an inactive enzyme precursor that requires activation by cleaving off a portion of its structure through various enzymatic processes. There are several synonyms for zymogen, including proenzyme, proprotein, inactive enzyme, and precursor enzyme. These terms are commonly used in biochemistry and molecular biology to describe the initial stages of protein synthesis or the activation of enzymes. The usage of these synonyms for zymogen allows for greater precision and clarity in scientific communication and research. Overall, the term zymogen, as well as its synonyms, play a crucial role in understanding essential biochemical processes and mechanisms of enzymatic activation.