1. to introduce an acetyl group into (a molecule or compound), typically in a chemical reaction
Usage: chemistry; biochemistry; third-person singular present tense of acetylate

Examples

• The enzyme acetylates the histone proteins to regulate gene expression.
• In the laboratory, the chemist acetylates the compound using acetic anhydride.
• The drug acetylates certain receptors in the nervous system.
• This process acetylates the substrate, changing its chemical properties.
• The bacteria acetylates the antibiotic, making it resistant to the drug.