elicitor

/ɪˈlɪsɪtər/

Definitions

1. noun

A substance or organism that induces the production of a chemical defense in another organism.

“The researcher studied the effects of different elicitors on plant defense mechanisms.”

2. noun

A person or thing that elicits a response or action from another.

“The politician’s speech was an effective elicitor of emotions in the audience.”

Synonyms

  • inducer
  • provocateur
  • stimulator

Antonyms

  • inhibitor
  • suppressor