Definition

Describing something that has only one ring or cycle, often used in biology and chemistry to refer to structures like certain flowers or molecules.

Example

The monocyclic structure of the compound makes it unique compared to polycyclic compounds.

Conversation

Did you know that some plants are monocyclic?

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they have a single whorl of flowers, which is pretty cool.

That is interesting! I didn't know plants could be classified like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Monocyclic is formed from "mono-" (meaning one) and "cyclic" (from Greek "kyklos", meaning circle or cycle). The word describes something that has a single cycle or is arranged in one circular form.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mono-' meaning one, and 'cyclic' relating to a circle — this helps you remember that 'monocyclic' refers to something with just one cycle.

Visually Confused Words