Receptor Meaning
/ɹɪˈsɛp.tə/Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounA protein on a cell wall that binds with specific molecules so that they can be absorbed into the cell in order to control certain functions.
nounAny specialized cell or structure that responds to sensory stimuli.
Sentence Examples
Researchers Identify New Receptor Complex in Brain
CEFR Practice Quiz
In the skin, the sensory ____ responds to pressure and temperature changes.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The drug works by binding to a specific ____ on the surface of the cancer cell.
Word Origin & History
From Middle English receptour, from Old French receptour or Latin receptōrius, from recipiō (“receive”), from re- (“back”) + capiō (“to hold”).
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"In the target organ, the drug is recognised by ‘receptors’. These are large molecules, usually proteins, to which the drug binds tightly and with a high degree of specificity."
— 2001, Leslie Iversen, Drugs: A Very Short Introduction, Oxford, page 24:
"White blood cells of the immune system, the gut and the spleen also have another type of cannabinoid receptor, known as CB2."
— 2019 May 14, Moises Velasquez-Manoff, “Can CBD Really Do All That?”, in The New York Times Magazine:
"The kind Receptors of the Fugitiues after the Detection."
— 1609, William Barlow, Answer to a nameless Catholic's censure, page 13:
"An act […] Against pyrats, their assistors or abettors, out-traidors or receptors, against breakers of the admirall's arrestments and attachments against goods forbidden,"
— 1660, Virginia statue, The Statutes at Large, Virginia, published 1809, page 538:
Explore More C1 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
In the skin, the sensory ____ responds to pressure and temperature changes.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The drug works by binding to a specific ____ on the surface of the cancer cell.