alpha-receptor

noun

al·​pha-re·​cep·​tor ˈal-fə-ri-ˌsep-tər How to pronounce alpha-receptor (audio)
: any of a group of receptors that are present on cell surfaces of some effector organs and tissues innervated by the sympathetic nervous system and that mediate certain physiological responses (such as vasoconstriction, relaxation of intestinal muscle, and contraction of most smooth muscle) when bound by specific adrenergic agents compare beta-receptor

Word History

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alpha-receptor was in 1948

Dictionary Entries Near alpha-receptor

Cite this Entry

“Alpha-receptor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alpha-receptor. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

alpha-receptor

noun
al·​pha-re·​cep·​tor ˈal-fə-ri-ˌsep-tər How to pronounce alpha-receptor (audio)
: any of a group of receptors that are present on cell surfaces of some effector organs and tissues innervated by the sympathetic nervous system and that mediate certain physiological responses (as vasoconstriction, relaxation of intestinal muscle, and contraction of most smooth muscle) when bound by specific adrenergic agents compare beta-receptor
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!