ligand
Americannoun
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Biochemistry. a molecule, as an antibody, hormone, or drug, that binds to a receptor.
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Chemistry. a molecule, ion, or atom that is bonded to the central metal atom of a coordination compound.
noun
Etymology
Origin of ligand
1945–50; < Latin ligandus, gerund of ligāre to bind, tie
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In a study published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, the team unveiled a redesigned iron catalyst that cuts chiral ligand use by two thirds.
From Science Daily • Feb. 27, 2026
This ligand successfully suppressed BET, allowing alkyl ketones to generate ketyl radicals and participate in high-yield transformations.
From Science Daily • Nov. 26, 2025
The key is the ligand — that’s the general word for whatever chemical messenger or signaling molecule attaches to the receptor, activating it.
From Salon • Jan. 24, 2025
The ligand or tag must be inert and have no negative impact on the function of the cells or create any reaction that could cause side effects.
From Science Daily • Nov. 25, 2024
A few questions remain, such as the specific ligand that should be used for human transplantation and the longevity of Treg-mediated immune protection.
From Science Daily • Nov. 25, 2024
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
