Definition

A type of compound made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, often found in sugars and starches, where the ratio of hydrogen to oxygen is typically 2:1.

Example

Glucose is a simple saccharide that provides energy to our bodies.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term saccharide before?

Yeah, I think it's related to sugars or something, right?

Exactly! A saccharide is a type of sugar molecule.

That's cool! I didn't know there were different types of sugars.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Saccharide → It is formed from "saccharon" (from Greek "sakkharon", meaning sugar) and the suffix "-ide" (used in chemistry to denote a particular type of compound). The word "saccharide" refers to a class of compounds that are sugars or sugar-like substances.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for sugar, 'sakkharon', to remember that 'saccharide' refers to sugar compounds.

Visually Confused Words