ligand

[ lahy-guhnd, lig-uhnd ]

noun

1. Biochemistry. a molecule, as an antibody, hormone, or drug, that binds to a receptor.
2. Chemistry. a molecule, ion, or atom that is bonded to the central metal atom of a coordination compound.

ligand

/ ˈlaɪ-; ˈlɪɡənd /

noun

1. chem an atom, molecule, radical, or ion forming a complex with a central atom

Word History and Origins

Origin of ligand¹

1945–50; < Latin ligandus, gerund of ligāre to bind, tie

Word History and Origins

Origin of ligand¹

C20: from Latin ligandum, gerund of ligāre to bind