monomer Chem.
(ˈmɒnəmə(r))
[f. mono- + -mer.]
Any compound from which a polymer might be formed by the combining together of its molecules (sometimes with the molecules of another compound).
| 1914 Chem. Abstr. VIII. 1037 If released from this combination, it [sc. chromic acid] gives at once a polychromic acid, which goes back to the monomer only in the presence of strong bases. 1942 Electronic Engin. XIV. 668/3 Impurities in the monomer styrene can have a very serious effect in the electrical properties of the finished polystyrene. 1957 Technology July 176/2 Will these catalysts polymerize monomers other than ethylene? 1974 Guardian 31 Jan. 6/2 Plastics manufacturers are now mounting health hazard investigations of vinyl chloride monomer. |
Hence monoˈmeric a., existing in the form of a monomer.
| 1929 [see dimeric a. 2]. 1944 Electronic Engin. XVI. 348/3 This ‘frost’..was caused by volatile impurities and residual monomeric styrene. 1969 Nature 13 Dec. 1060/2 The process by which the monomeric constituents of DNA are produced from their ribose analogues is now recognized to constitute a biochemical control mechanism of the greatest importance. |