acceptor

noun

ac·​cep·​tor ik-ˈsep-tər How to pronounce acceptor (audio)
ak-
1
2
: one that accepts an order or a bill of exchange
3
: an atom, molecule, or subatomic particle capable of receiving another entity (such as an electron) especially to form a compound compare donor sense 3a

Examples of acceptor 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.
Exposing the molecules to green light caused an electron to jump from the donor to the acceptor over a distance of about four nanometers. Henrik Mouritsen, Scientific American, 1 Apr. 2022 This gives exosomes an unrivalled ability to specifically target acceptor cells expressing particular surface antigens. Philip W. Askenase, Scientific American, 17 June 2020 Magee’s brainwave was to install a device that had a coin acceptor and a dial to engage a timing mechanism. Tony Borroz, WIRED, 13 May 2010

Word History

Etymology

Middle English acceptour (in the phrase acceptour of persones, translation of the Vulgate phrase personarum acceptor—Acts 10:34), borrowed from Latin acceptor, from accipere "to take, receive" + -tor, agent suffix — more at accept

First Known Use

1504, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of acceptor was in 1504

Dictionary Entries Near acceptor

Cite this Entry

“Acceptor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/acceptor. Accessed 7 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

acceptor

noun
ac·​cep·​tor ik-ˈsep-tər, ak- How to pronounce acceptor (audio)
: an atom, molecule, or subatomic particle capable of receiving another entity (as an electron) especially to form a compound compare donor sense 2

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