active site

noun

: a region on the surface of an enzyme whose shape permits binding only of a specific molecular substrate that then undergoes catalysis

Examples of active site in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Aubrey Valley/Double O Ranch is the only active site in the state. Austin Corona, The Arizona Republic, 23 Sep. 2024 Despite 25 years of active site remediation, and evidence that the concentration of contaminants is declining, significant impacts to the soil and groundwater remain. Staff Reports, Hartford Courant, 4 Jan. 2024 There were fewer than 50 active sites in August, shortly after the ban took effect. Blake Nelson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Jan. 2024 Advertisement Carnegie’s agreement with the U.S. Forest Service stipulates that the observatory must remain an active site for research, astronomy or education — or be dismantled down to its last historic bolt. Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 3 Oct. 2023 See all Example Sentences for active site 

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of active site was in 1957

Dictionary Entries Near active site

Cite this Entry

“Active site.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/active%20site. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

active site

noun
: a region especially of a biologically active protein (as an enzyme) where catalytic activity takes place and whose shape permits the binding only of a specific reactant molecule

More from Merriam-Webster on active site

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!