Molecule
/ˈmɒl.ɪ.kjuːl/noun
A group of atoms bonded together, representing the smallest fundamental unit of a chemical compound.
Did you know?The word 'molecule' originates from the Latin 'molecula', meaning 'a small mass', hinting at the unseen forces that bind the universe together.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
molecula
“A small mass or lump.”
16th Century
Latin
molecula
“Diminutive of 'moles', meaning a mass or bulk.”
Early 19th Century
French
molécule
“Adopted from Latin, used in chemistry.”
Modern English
English
molecule
“The term expanded to denote the smallest unit of a chemical compound.”