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

Most people need weekly treatments to encourage hair regrowth. JAK inhibitors: These prescription medications block specific enzymes (a type of protein) involved in the immune response. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 25 June 2025

Some folks, including those with bothersome PMS symptoms or PMDD, may feel less drained taking a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), even with a short two-week monthly course, Dr. Eblen adds. —Julia Ries, SELF, 23 June 2025

One of the medications, a calcineurin inhibitor called tacrolimus, has also been found to help with nerve regeneration. —Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 13 June 2025

One standard aromatase inhibitor, anastrozole, can cost less than $100 a month. —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