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

Time Traveler
The first known use of heavy chain was in 1964

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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