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
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 had been chained outside for so long, the heavy chain became embedded into his body. — Tj MacIas, Kansas City Star, 13 Mar. 2025 The heavy chains weighed on their necks and produced rashes. — Christopher Cann, USA TODAY, 8 Mar. 2025 Their small, fragile bodies bore the signs of a cruel life—shivering in the bitter cold and snow, each one trapped by the heavy chains around their necks. — Tj MacIas, Miami Herald, 7 Feb. 2025 The case launched in 2022 when an Amazon delivery worker reported to authorities that several dogs were tied up with heavy chains on the defendant's property in Dallas, Georgia, about 30 miles west of Atlanta. — Dennis Romero, NBC News, 4 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for heavy chain

Word History

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

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

Rhymes for heavy chain

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Cite this Entry

“Heavy chain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heavy%20chain. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

heavy chain

noun
ˈhev-ē-ˈchān How to pronounce heavy chain (audio)
: either of the two larger of the four polypeptide chains comprising antibodies compare light chain
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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