alkylating agent

noun

: a substance that causes replacement of hydrogen by an alkyl group especially in a biologically important molecule
specifically : one with mutagenic activity that inhibits cell division and growth and is used to treat some cancers

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alkylating agent was in 1900

Dictionary Entries Near alkylating agent

Cite this Entry

“Alkylating agent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alkylating%20agent. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

alkylating agent

noun
: a substance that causes replacement of hydrogen by an alkyl group especially in a biologically important molecule
specifically : one with mutagenic activity that inhibits cell division and growth and is used to treat some cancers

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