multivalent (redirected from multivalence)

multivalent /mul·ti·va·lent/ (-vāl´ent)

1. having the power of combining with three or more univalent atoms.

2. active against several strains of an organism.

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mul·ti·va·lent (mlt-vlnt)

adj.

1. Polyvalent.

2. Of or relating to the association of three or more homologous chromosomes during the first division of meiosis.

3. Having several sites of attachment for an antibody or antigen.

4. Having various meanings or values.

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multi·valence n.

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multivalent

[mul′tivā′lənt]

Etymology: L, multus + valere, to be strong

1 See polyvalent.

2 (in immunology) able to act against more than one strain of organism. Compare valence.

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multivalent

1. combining with several univalent atoms.

2. a vaccine that is active against several strains of an organism.