Synonyms for

Molecule

Verb / ˈmɑ:lʌˌkju:l / Another word for molecule — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A molecule is the smallest unit of a substance that still has all the properties of that substance. It is made up of two or more atoms that are chemically joined together.

Synonyms & similar words

speck mote corpuscle atom particle particle atom compound element substance chemical formula mixture solution crystal cluster unit structure arrangement configuration composition complex ensemble aggregate corpuscle

Synonyms by register

Formal

compound aggregate complex macromolecule

Informal

bit speck smidgen tiny bit

Literary

essence mote fragment

Antonyms

atom element particle unit component constituent

Common collocations

  • water molecule
  • oxygen molecule
  • carbon molecule
  • single molecule
  • large molecule
  • small molecule
  • molecular structure
  • molecular formula

Word family

noun molecule
adjective molecular

Usage note

While 'molecule' refers to a specific chemical entity, it is sometimes used informally to mean a very small particle or amount. The adjective form is 'molecular'.

Example sentences

  1. A molecule of water is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.
  2. The molecule of carbon dioxide is made up of one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms.
  3. The molecule of glucose is made up of six carbon atoms, twelve hydrogen atoms, and six oxygen atoms.
  4. The molecule of DNA is made up of four different types of nucleotides.
  5. The molecule of caffeine is what gives coffee its stimulating effect.

Quotes

  • The molecule of water, which is composed of two atoms of hydrogen and one of oxygen, is the chemical symbol of life. - Jacques Yves Cousteau
  • We are all of us stars, and we deserve to twinkle. So said Marilyn Monroe, and she was right. The atoms that make up our bodies were forged in stars, and the molecules that make up our cells were cooked up in ancient kitchens under very high temperatures. - Neil deGrasse Tyson
  • A single idea, if it is right, saves us the labor of an infinity of experiences. - Jacques Cousteau

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