inhibitor

n. a substance that slows down or stops a chemical reaction.

n. a substance that decreases the rate of, or prevents, a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.

“The scientist added an inhibitor to the mixture to keep it from reacting too quickly.”

“Corrosion inhibitors are frequently applied to metal surfaces to prevent oxidation in highly acidic environments.”

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.”

Technical

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.”

Academic · Formal