receptor

noun

re·​cep·​tor ri-ˈsep-tər 

: receiver: such as

a

: a cell or group of cells that receives stimuli : sense organ

b

: a chemical group or molecule (such as a protein) on the cell surface or in the cell interior that has an affinity for a specific chemical group, molecule, or virus

Examples of receptor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

By activating these receptors, the peptide can increase melanin production and thus make skin look more tan. — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 9 July 2026

Its receptors can be activated by external opioids such as morphine, but also natural ones – the endorphins produced by the brain to relieve pain and stress. — The Week Uk, TheWeek, 6 July 2026

The scent particles bind to and stimulate receptor molecules in the organ. — Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 6 July 2026

Native to the Pacific Islands, its active compounds (kavalactones) act directly on the brain's GABA receptors much like a mild sedative and are typically used for acute anxiety or insomnia. — Jesse Pines, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing receptor

• alpha-receptor
• beta-receptor
• selective estrogen receptor modulator
• stretch receptor
• T cell receptor

Rhymes for receptor

• acceptor
• preceptor
• adrenoceptor
• baroreceptor
• photoreceptor
• chemoreceptor
• interceptor
• scepter
• sceptre

Kids Definition

receptor

noun

re·​cep·​tor ri-ˈsep-tər 

1

: a cell or group of cells that receives stimuli : sense organ

2

: a molecule (as protein) on the surface or in the inside of a cell that recognizes and joins to specific molecules causing a certain activity within the cell to begin

Medical Definition

receptor

noun

re·​cep·​tor ri-ˈsep-tər 

1

: a cell or group of cells that receives stimuli : sense organ

2

: a chemical group or molecule (as a protein) on the cell surface or in the cell interior that has an affinity for a specific chemical group, molecule, or virus

3

: a cellular entity (as a beta-receptor or alpha-receptor) that is a postulated intermediary between a chemical agent (as a neurohormone) acting on nervous tissue and the physiological or pharmacological response