immunoglobulin

noun

im·​mu·​no·​glob·​u·​lin ˌi-myə-nō-ˈglä-byə-lən 

i-ˌmyü-nō-

: antibody

The glycoproteins produced by B-cells, called antibodies or immunoglobulins, recognize and bind free antigens and are responsible for humoral immunity …

—Haruo Saito et al.

—abbreviation Ig

Examples of immunoglobulin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The first involves immunoglobulin antibodies (IgE) that trigger immediate symptoms like wheezing, trouble breathing, swelling, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. —Allison Forsyth, Health, 15 Apr. 2026

As immune systems wane, the body makes less immunoglobulin E (IgE), an allergy-causing antibody, Viswanathan explains. —Matt Fuchs, Scientific American, 15 Apr. 2026

In some cases, immunoglobulin given within six days may also help prevent or lessen illness. —Jennifer McRae, CBS News, 12 Mar. 2026

Several pregnant women also required immunoglobulin treatment after exposure to help protect against the high risk of complications, the state health department said. —Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

immuno- + globulin

First Known Use

1953, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing immunoglobulin

• intravenous immunoglobulin

Rhymes for immunoglobulin

• antiglobulin
• lactoglobulin
• macroglobulin
• thyroglobulin
• globulin

Medical Definition

immunoglobulin

noun

im·​mu·​no·​glob·​u·​lin -ˈgläb-yə-lən 

: antibody

—abbreviation Ig