intermolecular

adjective

in·​ter·​mo·​lec·​u·​lar ˌin-tər-mə-ˈle-kyə-lər 

: existing, occurring, or acting between molecules

intermolecular hydrogen bonds

intermolecularly adverb

bonds that occur intermolecularly

Examples of intermolecular in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When two metallic surfaces get too close, intense intermolecular adhesive forces snap them together permanently. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 16 Sep. 2026

That’s because single-network elastomers, the pliable polymers that can stretch and rebound due to weak intermolecular bonds, have tended to act in an either/or fashion. — New Atlas, 12 Aug. 2026

Cells seem able to conduct this kind of computation very efficiently, creating little energy dissipation and relying, in part, on the intrinsic thermodynamics of intermolecular interactions. — Quanta Magazine, 15 July 2026

The bonding is accomplished by the forces of attraction between molecules, a phenomenon known as intermolecular bonding. — IEEE Spectrum, 5 Mar. 2025

These jobs and the classes in Cincinnati State's new program focus on the intermolecular makeup of food. — Madeline Mitchell, The Enquirer, 1 May 2023

When something is a solid, its individual molecules have so little energy that they are easily held in place by intermolecular forces. — Jake Parks, Discover Magazine, 13 Dec. 2018

Word History

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for intermolecular

• biomolecular
• intramolecular
• macromolecular
• monomolecular
• supramolecular
• unimolecular
• bimolecular
• molecular
• trabecular
• secular
• specular

Kids Definition

intermolecular

adjective

in·​ter·​mo·​lec·​u·​lar

ˌint-ər-mə-ˈlek-yə-lər

: existing or acting between molecules

Medical Definition

intermolecular

adjective

in·​ter·​mo·​lec·​u·​lar ˌint-ər-mə-ˈlek-yə-lər 

: existing or acting between molecules

intermolecularly adverb