English · Science & Technology
molecule
/ˈmɒl.ɪ.kjuːl/
[/ˈmɒl.ɪ.kjuːl/]
group of bonded atoms
Intermediatenoun
Definition
A group of two or more atoms joined together, forming the smallest unit of a compound.
Example
A water molecule is made of two hydrogen atoms joined to a single oxygen atom.
A water molecule is made of two hydrogen atoms joined to a single oxygen atom.
Etymology
From French 'molecule', from Latin 'molecula', a diminutive of 'moles' (mass).
How & Where It’s Used
A core idea in chemistry and biology.