Definition of agonist
1 : one that is engaged in a struggle
2 [from antagonist] a : a muscle that is controlled by the action of an antagonist with which it is pairedb : a chemical substance capable of combining with a specific receptor on a cell and initiating the same reaction or activity typically produced by the binding endogenous substance dopaminergic agonists — compare antagonist 2b
From the M-W Editors
Origin and Etymology of agonist
Late Latin agonista competitor, from Greek agōnistēs, from agōnizesthai to contend, from agōn
First Known Use: 1658
Medical Dictionary
agonist
playMedical Definition of agonist
1: a muscle that on contracting is automatically checked and controlled by the opposing simultaneous contraction of another muscle—called also agonist muscle, prime mover; compare antagonist a, synergist 2
2: a chemical substance (as a drug) capable of combining with a receptor on a cell and initiating the same reaction or activity typically produced by the binding of an endogenous substance binding of adrenergic agonists—compare antagonist b
Learn More about agonist
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Nglish: Translation of agonist for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about agonist
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