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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
So even if the titer tests don’t show high levels of antibodies, your immune memory cells may still be able to respond to the virus quickly, according to Offit.
—
Neha Mukherjee, CNN, 13 Feb. 2025
Quantitative immunoglobulins: This test measures the levels of antibodies in the blood.
—
Carrie Madormo, Rn, Health, 24 Jan. 2025
But, for the first time, researchers have successfully managed to use an experimental vaccine to stimulate broadly neutralizing antibodies against many forms of the virus, paving the way for a potential vaccine.
—
Rob Reddick, WIRED, 31 Dec. 2024
Your immune system creates specific defenses called antibodies against the imitation pathogen — known as an antigen — introduced by the vaccine.
—
Sara Moniuszko, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2025
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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 22 Feb. 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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