inhibitor

noun

in·​hib·​i·​tor in-ˈhi-bə-tər 

: one that inhibits: such as

a

: an agent that slows or interferes with a chemical action

b

: a substance that reduces or suppresses the activity of another substance (such as an enzyme)

Examples of inhibitor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Biologics: Biologics, such as interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor antibodies and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, may help reduce inflammation and symptoms by targeting specific proteins or cells in the immune system. —Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 2 May 2025

Harry also explains how the Greys have implanted an inhibitor inside of him, which blocks his true alien form — and disrupts his sweet (but kinda gross) relationship with Blue Avian Heather. —Nick Caruso, TVLine, 1 May 2025

Another class of drugs (CDK4/6 inhibitors), which work with the endocrine system to target a form of breast cancer (HER2-negative) not receptive to Herceptin may have added to the decline in mortality. —Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 29 Apr. 2025

The device’s size also means it can be incorporated into other implantable tools such as transcatheter aortic valve replacements, pain inhibitors, as well as nerve and bone restoration techniques. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 2 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1611, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing inhibitor

• ACE inhibitor
• protease inhibitor
• proton pump inhibitor
• selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor

Rhymes for inhibitor

• exhibitor

Medical Definition

inhibitor

noun

in·​hib·​i·​tor in-ˈhib-ət-ər 

: one that inhibits: as

a

: an agent that slows or interferes with a chemical reaction

b

: a substance that reduces the activity of another substance (as an enzyme)

c

: a gene that checks the normal effect of another nonallelic gene when both are present