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antibody
noun
an·ti·body
ˈan-ti-ˌbä-dē
: any of a large number of proteins of high molecular weight that are produced normally by specialized B cells after stimulation by an antigen and act specifically against the antigen in an immune response, that are produced abnormally by some cancer cells, and that typically consist of four subunits including two heavy chains and two light chains
called also immunoglobulin
Examples of antibody in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The next step is to get the human body to produce these antibodies in greater quantities.
—Rob Reddick, WIRED, 31 Dec. 2024
This venture capital firm has an incubator and teams of scientists and entrepreneurs working on things like mRNA and antibody therapeutics, as well as broader genomic projects.
—John Werner, Forbes, 28 Dec. 2024
Common infections include: Urinary tract infections Pneumonia (lung infection)
Otitis media (middle ear infection)
Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
Research suggests that protein deficiency weakens the immune system by impairing the body's ability to produce antibodies and cytokines.
—Colleen Doherty, Verywell Health, 18 Dec. 2024
Eggs Eating enough protein is essential for immune health because protein is necessary for producing antibodies and cytokines.
—Jillian Kubala, Health, 16 Dec. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1894, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing antibody
Dictionary Entries Near antibody
Cite this Entry
“Antibody.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antibody. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
antibody
noun
an·ti·body
ˈant-i-ˌbäd-ē
: a substance produced by special cells of the body that combines with an antigen and counteracts its effects or those of the microscopic plant or animal on which the antigen may occur
Medical Definition
antibody
noun
an·ti·body
ˈant-i-ˌbäd-ē
plural antibodies
: any of a large number of proteins of high molecular weight that are produced normally by specialized B cells after stimulation by an antigen and act specifically against the antigen in an immune response, that are produced abnormally by some cancer cells, and that typically consist of four subunits including two heavy chains and two light chains
called also immunoglobulin
More from Merriam-Webster on antibody
Nglish: Translation of antibody for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about antibody
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