antibody
a protein the immune system makes to fight invaders
a protein that identifies and neutralizes invaders
In more detail
1. (noun) a protein produced by the body's immune system that fights against viruses, bacteria, or other harmful substances by identifying and attacking them
Examples
- 1. Your body produces antibodies when you get vaccinated to protect you from disease.
How to use antibody
Antibody is a standard medical and scientific term used in immunology, healthcare, and everyday discussion about immunity and disease. It refers specifically to proteins that the immune system generates to neutralize pathogens or foreign substances. The term is neutral and objective, commonly appearing in medical contexts, news about vaccines and infections, and scientific literature.
Common phrases
- produce antibodies
- antibody response
- antibody levels
- monoclonal antibody
- antibody test
Synonyms
immunoglobulin · immune protein · defensive protein
Word family
anti-body (adj.) · antibodies (plural)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse antibodies with antigens; antibodies are produced by the body in response to antigens (foreign substances that trigger an immune response), not the other way around.
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