Meaning & Definition of Molecule in English
Molecule
The smallest particle in a chemical element or compound that has the chemical properties of that element or compound.
Pronunciation:
/ˈmɒlɪkjuːl/Part of Speech:
nounPlural:
moleculesDetailed Definitions
Definition: A group of atoms bonded together, representing the smallest fundamental unit of a chemical compound that can take part in a chemical reaction.
Example Sentence: Water is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, making it a molecule.
Definition: In biology, a molecule can refer to a group of atoms that work together to form the structure of living organisms.
Example Sentence: DNA is a complex molecule that carries genetic information.
Etymology
Origin: Derived from the Latin 'molecula', which is a diminutive of 'moles' meaning 'mass'.
Synonyms
Common Phrases and Expressions
- molecular biology: The branch of biology that deals with the molecular basis of biological activity.
- molecule of life: Refers to essential molecules such as DNA or proteins that are critical for life.
Translations
- Spanish: molécula
- French: molécule
- German: Molekül
- Russian: молекула
Related Words
- atom: The basic unit of a chemical element.
- compound: A substance formed when two or more chemical elements are chemically bonded together.
Slang Meanings of molecule
Meaning: To break it down to its basic components or pieces.
Example Sentence: Let's molecule this problem and see what's really going on.
Meaning: Referring to something essential or fundamental.
Example Sentence: That idea is the molecule of our project; everything else is built around it.