antibody

Everyday

An antibody is a special protein made by your body's immune system that sticks to germs, like viruses and bacteria, and helps destroy them. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons about health and the body, white blood cells make antibodies to fight germs. Vaccines work by teaching your body to make antibodies before you meet the real germ, so you do not get as ill. Each kind of antibody matches a certain germ, like a key fits a lock. Phrases: «make antibodies», «antibodies against».

Examples

• White blood cells make antibodies. tree →
• Antibodies help your body fight germs. tree →
• A vaccine helps you make antibodies. tree →
• Each antibody fits one kind of germ. tree →
• Babies get some antibodies from their mothers. tree →
• After chickenpox, your body has antibodies against it. tree →
• Antibodies are part of the immune system. tree →
• The test showed antibodies in his blood. tree →

Note

Countable: an antibody, antibodies (y changes to ies). «Anti-» means against. Trap: do not confuse antibodies (made by your body) with antibiotics (medicines that kill bacteria) or antiseptics (which clean cuts).