receptor

noun

re·​cep·​tor ri-ˈsep-tər 

: receiver: such as

a

: a cell or group of cells that receives stimuli : sense organ

b

: a chemical group or molecule (such as a protein) on the cell surface or in the cell interior that has an affinity for a specific chemical group, molecule, or virus

Examples of receptor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As for what his body is physically experiencing in this moment, Miller explains that the temperature receptors in Hemsworth's sensory neurons are responding to the cold, and to preserve heat, blood vessels in his skin, hands, feet, and extremities are narrowing quickly causing a sharp, aching pain. —EW.com, 5 Aug. 2025

Unlike men, women’s ACLs have relaxin receptors, a hormone that’s released at high levels just after ovulation and breaks down collagen, loosening ligaments. —Cindy Kuzma, SELF, 31 July 2025

These isoflavones, particularly genistein and daidzein, can bind to estrogen receptors in the body. —Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 22 July 2025

These compounds affect the body’s olfactory receptors, which are proteins that play an important role in your sense of smell. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 21 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing receptor

• alpha-receptor
• beta-receptor
• selective estrogen receptor modulator
• stretch receptor
• T cell receptor

Rhymes for receptor

• acceptor
• preceptor
• adrenoceptor
• photoreceptor
• baroreceptor
• chemoreceptor
• interceptor
• scepter
• sceptre

Kids Definition

receptor

noun

re·​cep·​tor ri-ˈsep-tər 

1

: a cell or group of cells that receives stimuli : sense organ

2

: a molecule (as protein) on the surface or in the inside of a cell that recognizes and joins to specific molecules causing a certain activity within the cell to begin

Medical Definition

receptor

noun

re·​cep·​tor ri-ˈsep-tər 

1

: a cell or group of cells that receives stimuli : sense organ

2

: a chemical group or molecule (as a protein) on the cell surface or in the cell interior that has an affinity for a specific chemical group, molecule, or virus

3

: a cellular entity (as a beta-receptor or alpha-receptor) that is a postulated intermediary between a chemical agent (as a neurohormone) acting on nervous tissue and the physiological or pharmacological response