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

The team gave the inhibitor for two weeks to mice that had the LRRK2 mutation (and show symptoms consistent with early Parkinson's disease)—to no effect. —Ian Randall, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 July 2025

This provides a more convenient alternative to current injectable PCSK9 inhibitors and is also expected to exceed $5 billion in peak sales. —Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025

The fabric resists mildew and moisture, and includes UV inhibitors to minimize fading. —Jacqueline Tempera, People.com, 22 June 2025

But the authors compared that favorably with the 1.9% of patients who experienced side effects while taking the standard aromatase inhibitor. —The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 June 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