dinucleotide

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌdaɪˈnjuːklətaɪd/

KK: /daɪˈnjuːklətaɪd/

noun

Definition

A type of molecule made up of two smaller units called nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA.

Example

Dinucleotides play a crucial role in the structure of DNA and RNA.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a dinucleotide?

Yeah, I think it’s a combination of two nucleotides, right?

Exactly! It’s fascinating how they work together in our DNA.

I know, science is pretty amazing when you think about it!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

nucleotide

dinucleoside

oligonucleotide

Antonyms

mononucleotide

polynucleotide

trinucleotide

Root Explanation

Dinucleotide → It is formed from "di-" (meaning two) and "nucleotide" (from "nucleo-" meaning nucleus and "-tide" meaning a unit of a compound). The word "dinucleotide" refers to a compound made up of two nucleotide units.

Memory Tip

Think of 'di-' meaning two, and 'nucleotide' as a unit related to the nucleus. This helps you remember that a dinucleotide is made of two nucleotide units.

Visually Confused Words