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Inhibitor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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inhibitor

[ɪnˈhɪbɪtə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

chemistry

A substance that decreases or stops a particular chemical reaction.

Synonyms

antagonist, blocker, repressor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inhibitor

Used in scientific or technical contexts, especially in biology, chemistry, and medicine, to describe a substance that slows down or prevents a particular process.

  • The drug acts as an inhibitor of the enzyme, decreasing its activity.
  • Researchers are looking for inhibitors that can slow the growth of cancer cells.
blocker

More commonly used in everyday language and in some medical contexts to describe a substance that blocks or limits a particular function or action. Usually refers to a tangible barrier or preventive measure.

  • He takes beta-blockers to manage his high blood pressure.
  • The firewall acts as a blocker against unauthorized access to the network.
antagonist

Used in pharmacology to describe a substance that interferes with or inhibits the physiological action of another. It is also common in literature to describe a character who opposes the protagonist.

  • The medication acts as an antagonist, preventing the receptor from being activated.
  • In the story, the antagonist hindered the hero's progress at every step.
repressor

Primarily used in genetics and molecular biology to describe a protein that binds to specific DNA sequences, blocking the transcription of a gene.

  • The repressor binds to the operator region of the DNA, preventing transcription.
  • Scientists are studying how repressors can influence gene expression in different environments.

Examples of usage

  • The enzyme inhibitor slowed down the chemical reaction in the experiment.
  • The drug acts as an inhibitor of the growth of cancer cells.
Context #2 | Noun

medicine

A substance that interferes with the physiological action of another substance, especially by combining with and blocking its receptor.

Synonyms

modulator, obstructor, suppressor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inhibitor

Used in scientific and medical contexts to describe a substance that slows down or prevents a particular chemical reaction or other processes.

  • The enzyme inhibitor prevented the reaction from occurring too quickly
  • This drug acts as an inhibitor of inflammation

Examples of usage

  • The medication functions as an inhibitor of the neurotransmitter receptors in the brain.
  • The inhibitor prevents the overstimulation of certain receptors in the body.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biochemistry, inhibitors are crucial in regulating enzyme activity, preventing them from catalyzing reactions.
  • Some medications act as inhibitors to block specific receptors in the body, aiding in the treatment of diseases like hypertension.
  • Different types of inhibitors, such as competitive and non-competitive, function in various ways to disrupt reactions.

Psychology

  • Cognitive inhibitors can impact decision-making, causing individuals to hesitate or overthink.
  • The inhibition of certain thoughts or memories is a common concept in psychology, often studied to understand repression.
  • Behavioral inhibitors can delay a person's response in social situations, often linked to anxiety and shyness.

Environmental Science

  • Inhibitors are often used in pollution control to reduce chemical reactions that lead to harmful emissions.
  • Certain inhibitors help prevent the corrosion of metals in buildings and infrastructure.
  • Research in ecology focuses on how natural inhibitors in ecosystems affect species interactions and resource competition.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and TV shows, the concept of inhibition is often portrayed in characters who struggle with internal conflicts, showing their hesitation to act.
  • Video games frequently include items or skills listed as inhibitors that players can use strategically to influence gameplay.
  • Music therapy has been shown to help reduce inhibitors in creativity, allowing for greater expression in artistic endeavors.

Origin of 'inhibitor'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'inhibitor' comes from the Latin 'inhibere', which means 'to hold back or restrain'.
  • It was first used in English in the late 19th century, primarily in scientific contexts.
  • The prefix 'in-' typically means 'not' or 'into', while 'hibit' is derived from a term meaning 'to hold'.

The word 'inhibitor' originates from the Latin word 'inhibere', which means 'to restrain'. The concept of inhibition has been prevalent in various fields such as chemistry, biology, and medicine. The term gained significance in the study of enzymes and chemical reactions, where inhibitors play a crucial role in regulating processes. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a broader range of substances that impede or restrict specific actions or reactions.

See also: inhibit, inhibition, inhibitory, uninhibited, uninhibitedly, uninhibitedness.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,123 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.