inhibitor

noun

in·​hib·​i·​tor in-ˈhi-bə-tər How to pronounce inhibitor (audio)
: 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
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.
For people with elevated LDL who don’t respond sufficiently to statins and are at very high risk for cardiovascular disease, strong cholesterol drugs called PCSK9 inhibitors have been found to reduce elevated Lp(a) levels by 20 to 25%. Stacey Colino, Time, 22 May 2025 These mutations can make the cancer more aggressive but also potentially susceptible to a specific type of drug called a PARP inhibitor, especially if the cancer becomes resistant to hormone therapy. Jason P. Joseph, The Conversation, 21 May 2025 For example, drugs known as Akt inhibitors may work well in people with certain gene mutations. Jamin Brahmbhatt, Verywell Health, 28 Apr. 2025 What to Know The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, explored whether immune checkpoint inhibitors could help shrink tumors without the need for surgery. Mohammed Soliman, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inhibitor

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1611, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inhibitor was circa 1611

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Cite this Entry

“Inhibitor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inhibitor. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

inhibitor

noun
in·​hib·​i·​tor in-ˈhib-ət-ər How to pronounce inhibitor (audio)
: 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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