receptor

The word “receptor” means a structure in a cell or on its surface that detects and responds to specific signals or substances. In plain terms, a cell part or structure that picks up specific signals, like a lock waiting for the right key.

“Receptor” is pronounced rih-SEHP-tuh (/ɹɪˈsɛp.tə/ in IPA).

Here is “receptor” used in a sentence: “The drug binds to pain receptors in the brain.”

“Receptor” is a noun.

The word “receptor” comes from Latin. From Old French receptour or Latin receptorius, from recipio ("to receive").

“Receptor” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Receptor” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a structure in a cell or on its surface that detects and responds to specific signals or substances.

In biology, a receptor is a structure in or on a cell that detects specific signals or substances, such as hormones or light, and triggers a response. Sensor is a more general term that can refer to biological receptors or to man-made devices that detect physical changes. All biological receptors are a type of sensor, but not all sensors are receptors.

A receptor is a structure that detects a specific stimulus, such as light, sound, or a chemical signal, while a neuron is a nerve cell that transmits electrical signals through the nervous system. Sensory receptors often pass the information they detect on to neurons, which carry the signal to the brain or spinal cord.

Receptors can respond to a wide range of stimuli, including chemical substances like hormones or neurotransmitters, as well as physical sensory inputs like light, sound, and touch. The type of receptor determines what it detects, which is why the eyes, ears, and skin each contain different specialized receptors.