beta-receptor

noun

be·​ta-re·​cep·​tor ˈbā-tə-ri-ˈsep-tər How to pronounce beta-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 vasodilation, relaxation of bronchial and uterine smooth muscle, and increased heart rate) when bound by specific adrenergic agents compare alpha-receptor

Word History

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined above

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

Dictionary Entries Near beta-receptor

Cite this Entry

“Beta-receptor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beta-receptor. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

beta-receptor

noun
be·​ta-re·​cep·​tor
-ri-ˌsep-tər
: 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 vasodilation, relaxation of bronchial and uterine smooth muscle, and increased heart rate) when bound by specific adrenergic agents

called also beta-adrenergic receptor, beta-adrenoceptor

compare alpha-receptor
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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