agonist
/əˈɡɒnɪst/Definitions
1. noun
A substance that binds to and activates a receptor, leading to a specific physiological response, especially a drug that has a therapeutic effect.
“The medication was a beta-2 agonist that helped open up the airways of the patient’s lungs.”
2. noun
An actor or performer who takes the leading role in a play, film, or other performance.
“The young actress was the agonist of the Shakespearean play and stole the show with her impressive performance.”
3. noun
A person who advocates for a particular cause or interest, often in opposition to an antagonist.
“The environmental activist was a passionate agonist for the preservation of the local wildlife.”
4. noun
A protein that binds to and activates a receptor, often involved in signal transduction pathways.
“The agonist protein was essential for the proper functioning of the cell’s signaling pathways.”
5. verb
To act as an agonist, especially in a theatrical performance.
“She agonized the lead role in the musical, bringing the character to life with her powerful voice.”