receptor

noun

re·​cep·​tor ri-ˈsep-tər How to pronounce receptor (audio)
: receiver: such as
a
: a cell or group of cells that receives stimuli : sense organ
b
: a chemical group or molecule (such as a protein) on the cell surface or in the cell interior that has an affinity for a specific chemical group, molecule, or virus

Examples of receptor 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.
And, on top of that, adenosine A2A receptor activation also improves the skin repair process by promoting the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. New Atlas, 26 May 2025 History Meets Virology The new hypothesis draws on more than just receptor biology. John Drake, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025 But glutamate can’t work without unlocking what is known as the NDMA receptor. David Oliver, USA Today, 16 May 2025 Studies show that grandmothers have lower DNA methylation of the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR), which is linked to stronger emotional bonds with grandchildren. David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for receptor

Word History

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of receptor was in 1898

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Cite this Entry

“Receptor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/receptor. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

receptor

noun
re·​cep·​tor ri-ˈsep-tər How to pronounce receptor (audio)
1
: a cell or group of cells that receives stimuli : sense organ
2
: a molecule (as protein) on the surface or in the inside of a cell that recognizes and joins to specific molecules causing a certain activity within the cell to begin

Medical Definition

receptor

noun
re·​cep·​tor ri-ˈsep-tər How to pronounce receptor (audio)
1
: a cell or group of cells that receives stimuli : sense organ
2
: a chemical group or molecule (as a protein) on the cell surface or in the cell interior that has an affinity for a specific chemical group, molecule, or virus
3
: a cellular entity (as a beta-receptor or alpha-receptor) that is a postulated intermediary between a chemical agent (as a neurohormone) acting on nervous tissue and the physiological or pharmacological response

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