Definition

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

Example

Polynucleotides play a crucial role in genetic information storage and transfer.

Conversation

I've been reading about DNA, and I learned that it's made up of polynucleotides.

That's interesting! So, what exactly is a polynucleotide?

It's basically a chain of nucleotides that forms the structure of DNA or RNA.

Got it! That makes sense, thanks for explaining it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polynucleotide → It is formed from "poly-" (meaning many) and "nucleotide" (from "nucleo-" meaning nucleus and "-tide" meaning a unit or part). The word refers to a molecule made up of many nucleotide units, which are the building blocks of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') building blocks ('nucleotide') coming together to form a larger structure, which is what a polynucleotide is.

Visually Confused Words