inhibitor

noun

in·​hib·​i·​tor in-ˈhi-bə-tər 

: one that inhibits: such as

a

: an agent that slows or interferes with a chemical action

b

: a substance that reduces or suppresses the activity of another substance (such as an enzyme)

Examples of inhibitor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors can lower blood pressure by dilating the arteries. —Rafle Fernandez, Verywell Health, 10 June 2025

Regulatory mandates and franchise disclosure document requirements are often cited as growth inhibitors. —David Chapman, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025

Ease and accessibility are also inhibitors for many, with 71 percent of survey-takers saying shopping based on values is sometimes or usually less convenient. —Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 28 May 2025

This metabolite turned out to be a potent inhibitor of an enzyme called CerS6 (ceramide synthase 6), which is involved in producing ceramides — lipid molecules tied to metabolic dysfunction. —Discover Magazine, 6 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1611, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing inhibitor

• ACE inhibitor
• protease inhibitor
• proton pump inhibitor
• selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor

Rhymes for inhibitor

• exhibitor

Medical Definition

inhibitor

noun

in·​hib·​i·​tor in-ˈhib-ət-ər 

: one that inhibits: as

a

: an agent that slows or interferes with a chemical reaction

b

: a substance that reduces the activity of another substance (as an enzyme)

c

: a gene that checks the normal effect of another nonallelic gene when both are present