ligand

[ lahy-guhnd, lig-uhnd ]

/ ˈlaɪ gənd, ˈlɪg ənd /

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noun

Biochemistry. a molecule, as an antibody, hormone, or drug, that binds to a receptor.

Chemistry. a molecule, ion, or atom that is bonded to the central metal atom of a coordination compound.

QUIZ

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Question 1 of 7

Which sentence is correct?

His boss, whom he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

His boss, who he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT

Compare complexing agent.

Origin of ligand

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

Words nearby ligand

lig, ligament, ligamentous, ligamentum, ligan, ligand, ligase, ligate, ligation, ligature, ligeance

British Dictionary definitions for ligand

ligand

/ (ˈlɪɡənd, ˈlaɪ-) /

noun

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

Word Origin for ligand

C20: from Latin ligandum, gerund of ligāre to bind

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012