a protein molecule on the surface of a cell that binds to specific molecules, such as hormones or neurotransmitters, and initiates a response in the cell, an organ or structure that receives stimuli, such as sound waves, light, or touch, and sends signals to the nervous system

Formal and Informal Expressions of receptor

In different contexts, you can replace 'receptor' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'sensor, detector' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'receiver' is a commonplace synonym.

receptor: Explore its Definition & Usage

receptor Definition

1a protein molecule on the surface of a cell that binds to specific molecules, such as hormones or neurotransmitters, and initiates a response in the cell
2an organ or structure that receives stimuli, such as sound waves, light, or touch, and sends signals to the nervous system

Using receptor: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "receptor" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The insulin receptor is responsible for regulating glucose metabolism.
Example
The ear is a receptor for sound waves.
Example
The skin is a receptor for touch and temperature.

receptor Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for receptor

Phrases with receptor

olfactory receptor
a sensory receptor in the nose that responds to odor molecules
Example
The olfactory receptor is responsible for our sense of smell.
photoreceptor
a specialized receptor cell in the retina that responds to light
Example
The rods and cones in the eye are photoreceptors that allow us to see.
taste receptor
a sensory receptor on the tongue that responds to taste molecules
Example
The taste receptor is responsible for our sense of taste.

Origins of receptor

from Latin 'receptus', meaning 'received'

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Summary: receptor in Brief

A 'receptor' [rɪˈsɛptər] can refer to a protein molecule on the surface of a cell that binds to specific molecules and initiates a response in the cell, or an organ or structure that receives stimuli and sends signals to the nervous system. Examples include the insulin receptor, which regulates glucose metabolism, and the ear, which is a receptor for sound waves.