1. a substance that slows down or prevents a chemical reaction or biological process
Usage: scientific; technical
2. something that restrains or holds back an action or process

Examples

• The enzyme inhibitor prevented the chemical reaction from occurring.
• Rust inhibitors are added to metal surfaces to prevent corrosion.
• The medication acts as a growth inhibitor for certain types of cancer cells.
• Fear can be a powerful inhibitor of creative expression.
• The company developed a new corrosion inhibitor for automotive parts.
• Social anxiety served as an inhibitor to his public speaking abilities.