molecule

noun

mol·​e·​cule ˈmä-li-ˌkyül How to pronounce molecule (audio)
Synonyms of moleculenext
1
: the smallest particle of a substance that retains all the properties (see property sense 1a) of the substance and is composed of one or more atoms (see atom sense 1a)
a molecule of water
a molecule of oxygen
2
: a tiny bit : particle
There is a molecule of evidence to support these charges.

Examples of molecule in a Sentence

There is not a molecule of evidence to support these charges. not a molecule of sense in that girl
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Since each one of the harmful particles contains one apoB molecule, testing for it essentially captures the overall number of harmful plaque-producing compounds. Akshay Syal, NBC news, 8 Feb. 2026 Free radicals are molecules that damage cells, which can lead to illness and negatively impact body function. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 6 Feb. 2026 The bottom line is that a molecule of nitrate is a molecule of nitrate, regardless of source. Paul Cappiello, Louisville Courier Journal, 6 Feb. 2026 These molecules could serve as the building blocks of more complex organic molecules, which are vital in the development and sustaining of life. Robert Lea, Space.com, 6 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for molecule

Word History

Etymology

French molécule, from New Latin molecula, diminutive of Latin moles mass

First Known Use

1701, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of molecule was in 1701

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Molecule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/molecule. Accessed 10 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

molecule

noun
mol·​e·​cule ˈmäl-i-ˌkyü(ə)l How to pronounce molecule (audio)
1
: the smallest particle of a substance having all the characteristics of the substance
a molecule of water
a molecule of oxygen
2
: a very small bit : particle

Medical Definition

molecule

noun
mol·​e·​cule ˈmäl-i-ˌkyü(ə)l How to pronounce molecule (audio)
: the smallest particle of a substance that retains all the properties of the substance and is composed of one or more atoms

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