antibody

noun

an·​ti·​body ˈan-ti-ˌbä-dē 

: any of a large number of proteins of high molecular weight that are produced normally by specialized B cells after stimulation by an antigen and act specifically against the antigen in an immune response, that are produced abnormally by some cancer cells, and that typically consist of four subunits including two heavy chains and two light chains

called also immunoglobulin

Examples of antibody in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Moderna's mFlusiva vaccine would operate similarly to its COVID-19 vaccine by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that can fight off viruses. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 5 Aug. 2026

These antibodies later neutralized about 16% of tetrodotoxin in laboratory tests. — Jay Kakade august 05, Refractor, 5 Aug. 2026

In 1984–85 it was discovered that humans naturally produce abundant antibodies (anti-Gal) against the alpha-gal epitope, establishing its immunological importance and launching subsequent research into its biological significance. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 5 Aug. 2026

Researchers have also explored silk particles and gels for drugs made from proteins, like insulin and antibody treatments. — Aliasger K. Salem, The Conversation, 4 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing antibody

• monoclonal antibody

Rhymes for antibody

• afterbody
• busybody
• everybody
• autoantibody
• bawdy
• body
• gaudy
• khadi
• mahdi
• noddy
• oddi
• shoddy

Kids Definition

antibody

noun

an·​ti·​body ˈant-i-ˌbäd-ē 

: a substance produced by special cells of the body that combines with an antigen and counteracts its effects or those of the microscopic plant or animal on which the antigen may occur

Medical Definition

antibody

noun

an·​ti·​body ˈant-i-ˌbäd-ē 

plural antibodies

: any of a large number of proteins of high molecular weight that are produced normally by specialized B cells after stimulation by an antigen and act specifically against the antigen in an immune response, that are produced abnormally by some cancer cells, and that typically consist of four subunits including two heavy chains and two light chains

called also immunoglobulin