antibody

noun

an·​ti·​body ˈan-ti-ˌbä-dē How to pronounce antibody (audio)
: 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
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.
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 See all Example Sentences for antibody 

Word History

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of antibody was in 1894

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 How to pronounce antibody (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce antibody (audio)
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

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