Definition

A type of sugar that is an important part of DNA, helping to form its structure.

Example

Deoxyribose is essential for the formation of DNA molecules in living organisms.

Conversation

Did you know that deoxyribose is a crucial part of DNA?

Yeah, I remember learning about it in biology class.

It's interesting how such a simple sugar like deoxyribose has such an important role.

Absolutely! Without it, our genetic information wouldn't even exist.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deoxyribose is formed from "de-" (meaning removal or reversal), "oxy" (from Greek "oxus", meaning sharp or acid, referring to oxygen), and "ribose" (from Latin "ribosa", meaning a sugar derived from ribose). The word describes a sugar molecule that has had an oxygen atom removed, specifically from ribose, which is a sugar containing oxygen.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('de-') an 'oxygen' ('oxy') from a sugar called 'ribose' — that's how deoxyribose is formed.

Visually Confused Words