ligand

li·gand

 (lī′gənd, lĭg′ənd)

n.

An ion, molecule, or molecular group that binds to another chemical entity to form a larger complex.

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[From Latin ligandus, gerundive of ligāre, to bind; see ligate.]

ligand

(ˈlɪɡənd; ˈlaɪ-)

n

(Chemistry) chem an atom, molecule, radical, or ion forming a complex with a central atom

[C20: from Latin ligandum, gerund of ligāre to bind]

li•gand

(ˈlaɪ gənd, ˈlɪg ənd)

n.

1. a molecule, as an antibody, hormone, or drug, that binds to a receptor.

2. a molecule, ion, or atom that is bonded to the central metal atom of a coordination compound.

[1945–50; < Latin ligandus, ger. of ligāre to bind, tie]

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

ligand - a substance (an atom or molecule or radical or ion) that forms a complex around a central atom substance - a particular kind or species of matter with uniform properties; "shigella is one of the most toxic substances known to man"

Translations

Ligand

ligand