Origin: Greek prefix anti-
Antibody has 2 different meanings across 1 category:
any of a large variety of proteins normally present in the body or produced in response to an antigen which it neutralizes, thus producing an immune response
"When the virus enters the bloodstream, specialized white blood cells release antibodies that neutralize the pathogen and trigger an effective immune response."
A protein produced by B-lymphocytes that binds to a specific antigen.
"When the immune system detects an invader, specialized B-lymphocytes produce antibodies that bind tightly to the specific antigens on its surface."
In plain English: An antibody is a protein made by your immune system that helps fight off germs and viruses trying to make you sick.
"Your immune system produces antibodies to fight off invading viruses and bacteria."
Usage: An antibody is the immune system's specialized protein designed to neutralize or mark antigens like viruses and bacteria for destruction. Use this term specifically when referring to these defensive proteins rather than general immunity or vaccines, which are distinct concepts in medical contexts.
The word antibody is formed from the prefix anti- and body, directly translating the German term Antikörper. It entered English to describe substances in the blood that fight off foreign invaders like bacteria or viruses.