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heavy chain
noun
: either of the two larger of the four polypeptide chains comprising antibodies compare light chain
Examples of heavy chain in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Variations in certain genes, especially myosin heavy chain 9 (MYH9) and apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1), can increase the risk of kidney failure among communities of color and communities that have fewer resources.
—Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 30 Sep. 2024
Lunn took out a small key and struggled for a long while to open a padlock that secured a heavy chain around the door handles.
—Patricia Marx, The New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2024
Others were also found in the rain in outdoor pens or on heavy chains.
—Joseph P. Smith, USA TODAY, 7 Apr. 2024
Designed to be worn across two fingers, two gold bands are connected by a heavy chain representing the strength of connection.
—Caitie Kelly Kin Woo Kate Guadagnino Nicole Demarco Megan O’Sullivan, New York Times, 25 Jan. 2024
See all Example Sentences for heavy chain
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'heavy chain.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1964, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near heavy chain
Cite this Entry
“Heavy chain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heavy%20chain. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
Medical Definition
heavy chain
noun
: either of the two larger of the four polypeptide chains comprising antibodies compare light chain
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