ribosome

noun

ri·​bo·​some ˈrī-bə-ˌsōm How to pronounce ribosome (audio)
: any of the RNA-rich cytoplasmic granules that are sites of protein synthesis see cell illustration
ribosomal adjective

Examples of ribosome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This helical strand of molecules allows for information contained in DNA in the nucleus of cells to be delivered to ribosomes where protein synthesis can occur. Joshua P. Cohen, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025 Acting like a factory assembly line, the ribosome then links amino acids together, one by one, to build a protein. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2025 Venki Ramakrishnan was one of three collaborators awarded the Nobel Prize in chemistry in 2009 for studies in the function and structure of the ribosome. Gregory J Rummo, Sun Sentinel, 10 Aug. 2025 Venki Ramakrishnan was one of three collaborators awarded the Nobel Prize in chemistry in 2009 for studies in the function and structure of the ribosome. Gregory J. Rummo, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ribosome

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ribosome was in 1958

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Cite this Entry

“Ribosome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ribosome. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

ribosome

noun
ri·​bo·​some ˈrī-bə-ˌsōm How to pronounce ribosome (audio)
: one of numerous small RNA-containing particles in a cell that are sites of protein synthesis

Medical Definition

ribosome

noun
ri·​bo·​some ˈrī-bə-ˌsōm How to pronounce ribosome (audio)
: any of the RNA- and protein-rich cytoplasmic granules that are sites of protein synthesis
ribosomal adjective

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