agonist
nounUK /ˈæɡ.ə.nɪst/
US /ˈæɡ.ə.nɪst/
A muscle that pulls to make a body part move.
When you bend your arm, the biceps acts as the agonist.
SYNONYMS
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A chemical that attaches to a receptor and makes it active.
The drug works as an agonist at dopamine receptors.
3. A person who competes or struggles in a contest.
The two agonists fought hard for the prize.
4. A character in a story who actively struggles against another.
In the drama, the agonist challenges the hero at every turn.