Dictionary > Antagonist

Antagonist

Definition
noun, plural: antagonists
A biological structure or chemical agent that interferes with the physiological action of another
Supplement
Examples of antagonists are drugs that bind to cell receptors that prevent the agonists from eliciting a biological response. Other biological antagonists are muscles that occur in pairs. An antagonist muscle opposes the action of the agonist muscle, thus, helps in regulating movements.
Word origin: Greek antagonistes (an opponent)
Compare:

Related term(s):

  • antagonism
  • antagonistic effect
  • Associated antagonist
  • Competitive antagonist
  • Folate antagonist
  • Enzyme antagonist


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