agonist

noun

ag·​o·​nist ˈa-gə-nist 

1

: one that is engaged in a struggle

2

[from antagonist]

a

: a muscle that is controlled by the action of an antagonist with which it is paired

b

: a chemical substance capable of combining with a specific receptor on a cell and initiating the same reaction or activity typically produced by the binding endogenous substance

dopaminergic agonists

compare antagonist sense 2b

Examples of agonist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The conversation around expectations is more nuanced with massive weight loss patients—those who have, with the help of GLP-1 agonists, bariatric surgery, and/or lifestyle modifications, shed at least half of their excess weight. —Jolene Edgar, Allure, 20 Nov. 2024

One of the most prominent medical developments in recent years has been the emergence of a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). —Tom Hawking, Popular Science, 17 Oct. 2024

Of note: Only 18% of firms with 200 or more workers offering health benefits cover GLP-1 agonists for weight loss. —Maya Goldman, Axios, 9 Oct. 2024

These medications are classified as GLP-1 receptor agonists. —Karen Berger, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 24 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Late Latin agōnista, borrowed from Greek agōnistḗs, from agōnízesthai "to contend, fight" + -istēs -ist entry 1 — more at agonize

First Known Use

1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

agonist

noun

ag·​o·​nist ˈag-ə-nəst 

1

: a muscle that on contracting is automatically checked and controlled by the opposing simultaneous contraction of another muscle

called also agonist muscle, prime mover

compare antagonist sense a, synergist sense 2

2

: a chemical substance (as a drug) capable of combining with a receptor on a cell and initiating the same reaction or activity typically produced by the binding of an endogenous substance

binding of adrenergic agonists

compare antagonist sense b