molecules
mol-e-cules · noun
Definitions
noun
- 1.
The smallest units of a chemical compound that retain all the properties of that compound; groups of atoms bonded together.
- 2.
A very small particle or amount.
Related words
Etymology
Plural of "molecule," from French molécule, from New Latin molecula ("a tiny mass"), diminutive of Latin moles ("mass, bulk"). The scientific use emerged in the 17th century.