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 antibody, bevacizumab (B), is used for the treatment of other cancers and for treatment of macular degeneration. William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025 Marcus was rarely a match for transplants because testing suggested that his antibodies would reject almost any new organ. Brian M. Rosenthal, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2025 Immune cells need protein to produce antibodies that recognize and fight germs.12 Fiber: The body needs fiber to aid digestion and maintain a healthy weight and body mass index (BMI). Sohaib Imtiaz, Verywell Health, 24 Feb. 2025 These antibodies fight infections and create immunity. Jenny Lehmann, Discover Magazine, 24 Feb. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Antibody.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antibody. Accessed 10 Mar. 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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