© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

dextrorotatory

Advanced (C1/C2)

IPA: //ˌdɛkstrəʊrəˈteɪtəri//

KK: /dɛkstrəˈroʊtəˌtɔri/

adjective
Definition

Relating to a substance that causes polarized light to turn to the right or clockwise.


Example

The chemist explained that the dextrorotatory compound would affect the light's direction.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know that some solutions are dextrorotatory?
Sloth B
Really? I don't think I've ever heard that term before.
Sloth A
Yeah, it means they rotate light to the right, which is pretty cool!
Sloth B
That is interesting! I love learning new science facts.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
right-handed
clockwise
positive
Antonyms
left-handed
counterclockwise
negative
Root Explanation

Dextrorotatory → It is formed from "dexter" (from Latin, meaning right or on the right side) and "rotare" (meaning to rotate). The word describes something that rotates to the right, particularly in the context of light or molecules.

Memory Tip

Think of 'right' ('dexter') and 'rotate' ('rotare') to remember that 'dextrorotatory' means something that rotates to the right.

Visually Confused Words
exhortatory
dehortatory
Is this page helpful?