English · Word Candidate

molecule

/ˈmɒl.ɪ.kjuːl/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: molecules · moleculae

Sense 1

Meaning · English

The smallest particle of a specific element or compound that retains the chemical properties of that element or compound; two or more atoms held together by chemical bonds.

Noun

Examples

Hydrogen chloride is a diatomic molecule, consisting of a hydrogen atom and a chlorine atom.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A tiny amount.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “molecule” mean?

The smallest particle of a specific element or compound that retains the chemical properties of that element or compound; two or more atoms held together by chemical bonds.

Is “molecule” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.