English · Word Candidate

receptor

/ɹɪˈsɛp.tə/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: receptors

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A protein on a cell wall that binds with specific molecules so that they can be absorbed into the cell in order to control certain functions.

Noun

Examples

In the target organ, the drug is recognised by ‘receptors’. These are large molecules, usually proteins, to which the drug binds tightly and with a high degree of specificity.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Any specialized cell or structure that responds to sensory stimuli.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “receptor” mean?

A protein on a cell wall that binds with specific molecules so that they can be absorbed into the cell in order to control certain functions.

Is “receptor” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.