Antagonist

Pronunciation
/an-ta-gon-ist/
Category
Entomology
Singular
Antagonist
Plural
Antagonists

Definition

A substance that binds to and blocks the action of another substance, such as a receptor or enzyme. In entomology, antagonists can disrupt insect development, behavior, or physiology.

Etymology

From Greek 'anti-', meaning 'against', and 'agon', meaning 'struggle'.

Example

An antagonist of the insect hormone ecdysone can disrupt molting and development.

Related Terms