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anticuerpo means antibody — a common term in Medical Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: April 4, 2026

🩺 Medical Spanish

anticuerpo

noun • /[an-tee-KWER-po]/

antibody

Example:

El anticuerpo combate infecciones.

The antibody fights infections.

🧠 What does anticuerpo mean?

An anticuerpo is a protein produced by the immune system, specifically by plasma cells, to identify and neutralize foreign objects such as pathogenic bacteria and viruses. These molecules are crucial for the body's defense mechanisms, marking invaders for destruction or directly blocking their harmful effects. In medical contexts, anticuerpos are frequently discussed in relation to immunity, vaccines, allergies, and autoimmune diseases.

📚 Extra examples

  • El análisis de sangre reveló la presencia de anticuerpos contra el virus.
    The blood test revealed the presence of antibodies against the virus.
  • Las vacunas funcionan estimulando la producción de anticuerpos protectores.
    Vaccines work by stimulating the production of protective antibodies.
  • Un nivel elevado de anticuerpos puede indicar una infección o una reacción alérgica.
    A high level of antibodies can indicate an infection or an allergic reaction.
  • El cuerpo produce anticuerpos específicos para cada patógeno.
    The body produces specific antibodies for each pathogen.
  • Se están investigando nuevos tratamientos que utilizan anticuerpos monoclonales.
    New treatments using monoclonal antibodies are being investigated.

💡 Did You Know?

The term 'anticuerpo' is derived from 'anti-' (against) and 'cuerpo' (body), literally meaning 'against the body' in the sense of opposing foreign invaders rather than being against the body itself. This name highlights their function in defending the organism.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "anticuerpo"

Synonyms: inmunoglobulina

🔍 See more medical spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'antibody' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'antibody' is anticuerpo.
How do you pronounce 'anticuerpo' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is approximately an-tee-KWER-poh. The stress is on the second to last syllable.
How do you use 'anticuerpo' in a sentence?
Anticuerpo is used similarly to its English counterpart, referring to the immune system's defense proteins. For example, 'El médico busca anticuerpos en la sangre del paciente.'
What is the English translation of 'anticuerpo'?
The English translation of 'anticuerpo' is antibody.
Does 'anticuerpo' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'anticuerpo' is a masculine noun and changes for number. The singular is 'anticuerpo' and the plural is 'anticuerpos'.
Is 'anticuerpo' common in everyday Spanish?
While more technical than everyday vocabulary, 'anticuerpo' is common in discussions related to health, medicine, and scientific news, making it relevant for B1-C1 learners. It is frequently encountered in contexts involving illness, treatments, and the immune system.
Does 'anticuerpo' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'anticuerpo' does not have common slang or double meanings. Its usage is primarily literal and scientific within the medical and biological fields.
Is 'anticuerpo' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The term 'anticuerpo' is standard and used consistently across both Spain and Latin America within the medical and scientific communities. There are no significant regional variations in its meaning or usage.

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