Definition

A very small unit of a substance that is made up of two or more atoms bonded together, and it keeps the properties of that substance.

Example

Water is made up of molecules that consist of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.

Conversation

Did you know that a molecule is the smallest unit of a substance?

Yeah, I learned that in chemistry class last week!

It's fascinating how everything is made up of tiny molecules.

Absolutely! It makes you appreciate the complexity of nature.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Molecule → It is formed from "mole" (from Latin *moles*, meaning mass or bulk) and the diminutive suffix "-cule" (meaning small). The word "molecule" refers to a small mass or a tiny particle of a substance.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'small mass' — 'mole' refers to mass, and '-cule' means small. This helps you remember that a molecule is a tiny particle of matter.

Visually Confused Words