demethylation
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /dɪˌmɛθəˈleɪʃən/
KK: /dɛmɛθəˈleɪʃən/
noun
Definition
The process of removing one or more methyl groups from a molecule.
Example
Demethylation is an important process in the regulation of gene expression.
Conversation
Have you heard about the process of demethylation in genetics?
Yeah, I read that it can really affect gene expression.
Exactly! It's fascinating how removing methyl groups changes everything.
It really is — science has so many surprises!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dealkylation
demethylation
removal
Antonyms
methylation
addition
attachment
Root Explanation
Demethylation → It is formed from "de-" (meaning removal or reversal) and "methyl" (from Greek "mēthylē", meaning a chemical group derived from methane). The suffix "-ation" (meaning the process of) indicates that demethylation refers to the process of removing a methyl group from a molecule.
Memory Tip
Think of 'removing' ('de-') a 'methyl group' — that's what demethylation means, the process of taking away that specific chemical group.
Visually Confused Words
methylation
ethylation
deacetylation