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

Aside from a simple lack of awareness, cost seems to be the greatest inhibitor to adoption of microfiber pollution mitigation strategies. — Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 8 July 2026

Another 2024 study also found that fasting can increase levels of an inflammation inhibitor. — Mélanie Defouilloy, Vogue, 6 July 2026

Jones was also circumspect, recalling that ACE inhibitors, drugs to treat blood pressure, heart failure, and kidney problems, were once hailed in a similar fashion. — Elizabeth Cooney, STAT, 1 July 2026

Light is the strongest inhibitor of melatonin production. — Sally Ibrahim, The Conversation, 23 June 2026

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