receptor
2 synonyms and 0 antonyms for receptor, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A structure in a cell or on its surface that detects and responds to specific signals or substances.
How to use receptor
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French receptour or Latin receptorius, from recipio ("to receive").
Full origin of receptor →Frequently asked questions
What does “receptor” mean?
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.
How do you pronounce “receptor”?
“Receptor” is pronounced rih-SEHP-tuh (/ɹɪˈsɛp.tə/ in IPA).
How do you use “receptor” in a sentence?
Here is “receptor” used in a sentence: “The drug binds to pain receptors in the brain.”
What part of speech is “receptor”?
“Receptor” is a noun.
Where does the word “receptor” come from?
The word “receptor” comes from Latin. From Old French receptour or Latin receptorius, from recipio ("to receive").
Is “receptor” a common word?
“Receptor” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “receptor” have?
“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.
What is the difference between a receptor and a sensor?
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.
What is the difference between a receptor and a neuron?
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.
What kinds of stimuli do receptors respond to?
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.