inhibitor

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Medicine Technical

n. a chemical or drug that stops a natural process in the body, like an enzyme working.

n. a molecule that binds to an enzyme and decreases its activity, or a drug that interferes with a physiological process.

“The doctor prescribed an enzyme inhibitor to help lower the patient's blood pressure.”

“Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are a class of drugs commonly used to manage clinical depression and anxiety disorders.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Academic · Formal

n. something that stops you from acting naturally or feeling free.

n. a psychological or social factor that restrains or prevents a particular behaviour or thought process.

“Fear of failure can be a major inhibitor when you are trying to learn a new skill.”

“The lack of social support acted as a significant inhibitor to the community's willingness to adopt the new environmental regulations.”