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

All three of these treatments are antibodies that bind to amyloid, the protein that builds up in the brains of patients and unleashes toxic effects on neurons, especially those related to memory and higher cognitive functions. —Alice Park, TIME, 11 June 2024

Experiments involving the antibody have completed phase 2 trials for mitigating rejection in kidney transplant recipients, among other uses. —Bruce Gil, Quartz, 22 May 2024

There’s an evolutionary arms race — as the immune system makes new antibodies, the virus develops new mutations. —Lisa Krieger, The Denver Post, 11 June 2024

Blood tests yield more than 3 g of abnormal antibodies per dl of blood. —Barbara Brody, Health, 9 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing antibody

• monoclonal antibody

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