antibody
UK: ˈæntɪbɒdi | US: ˈæntɪbɑːdi
n. A protein produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize foreign substances like bacteria or viruses.
The word "antibody" combines "anti-" (from Greek anti, meaning "against") and "body" (from Old English bodig, referring to a physical substance or structure). Coined in the early 20th century, it reflects the protein's function of targeting ("against") foreign invaders ("body") in the immune response. The term logically merges opposition and physicality, capturing its biological role.
Vaccines stimulate the production of antibodies to fight infections.
The lab test detected antibodies against the virus in her blood.
Monoclonal antibodies are used in modern cancer treatments.
Without sufficient antibodies, the immune system struggles to defend the body.
Researchers studied how antibodies bind to specific antigens.