ribosome

noun

ri·​bo·​some ˈrī-bə-ˌsōm How to pronounce ribosome (audio)
: any of the RNA-rich cytoplasmic granules that are sites of protein synthesis see cell illustration
ribosomal adjective

Examples of ribosome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2009 for his discovery of the structure of the ribosome, a crucial cellular machine responsible for gene expression. Sandro Iannaccone, Wired News, 15 Apr. 2025 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 See All Example Sentences for ribosome

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ribosome was in 1958

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Cite this Entry

“Ribosome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ribosome. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

ribosome

noun
ri·​bo·​some ˈrī-bə-ˌsōm How to pronounce ribosome (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce ribosome (audio)
: any of the RNA- and protein-rich cytoplasmic granules that are sites of protein synthesis
ribosomal adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on ribosome

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