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molecule definition

mol·ecule (mäl′ə kyo̵̅o̅l′)

noun

  1. the smallest particle of an element or compound that can exist in the free state and still retain the characteristics of the element or compound: the molecules of elements consist of one atom or two or more similar atoms; those of compounds consist of two or more different atoms
  2. a small particle

Etymology: Fr molécule < ModL molecula, dim. of L moles, a mass: see mole

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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