-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
ribosome
noun
ri·bo·some
ˈrī-bə-ˌsōm
: any of the RNA-rich cytoplasmic granules that are sites of protein synthesis see cell illustration
Examples of ribosome in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In 2014, his lab showed vaults are made in an unusual way, by an assembly line of ribosomes.
—Byjohn Travis, science.org, 6 June 2024
Every ribosomal hibernation factor previously discovered physically blocks the ribosome’s A site, so any protein-making process that’s in progress must be completed before the factor can attach to turn off the ribosome.
—Dan Samorodnitsky, Quanta Magazine, 5 June 2024
Before Balon, hibernation factors had only been seen in empty ribosomes.
—Dan Samorodnitsky, Quanta Magazine, 5 June 2024
Still other types of ncRNAs, called small nucleolar RNAs, work within cell compartments called nucleoli to help modify the RNA in ribosomes—a cell’s protein-making factories—as well as transfer RNA and mRNA.
—Philip Ball, Scientific American, 14 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for ribosome
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Word History
First Known Use
1958, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near ribosome
Cite this Entry
“Ribosome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ribosome. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.
Kids Definition
ribosome
noun
ri·bo·some
ˈrī-bə-ˌsōm
: one of numerous small RNA-containing particles in a cell that are sites of protein synthesis
Medical Definition
ribosome
noun
ri·bo·some
ˈrī-bə-ˌsōm
: any of the RNA- and protein-rich cytoplasmic granules that are sites of protein synthesis
More from Merriam-Webster on ribosome
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ribosome
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share