capsomere: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “capsomere” mean?
A structural subunit of a virus capsid.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A structural subunit of a virus capsid.
In virology, a capsomere is one of the identical protein units that self-assemble to form the protein shell (capsid) surrounding the viral genetic material.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No spelling or vocabulary differences; a technical term identical in both varieties.
Connotations
Purely technical, no connotative differences.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language; identical frequency in scientific literature in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “capsomere” in a Sentence
The capsid is composed of [number] capsomeres.[Virus name] exhibits [adjective] capsomeres.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “capsomere” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- capsomeric structure
- capsomeric arrangement
American English
- capsomeric pattern
- capsomeric composition
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in virology, microbiology, and biochemistry research papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
The primary context. Describes viral structure in technical manuals, scientific discussions, and electron microscopy analysis.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “capsomere”
Neutral
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “capsomere”
- Using 'capsid' and 'capsomere' interchangeably.
- Misspelling as 'capsomere' (one 's').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The capsid is the complete protein shell of a virus. A capsomere is one of the repeating protein subunits that assembles to form the capsid.
Exclusively in virology, microbiology, molecular biology, and related biomedical sciences.
No. Capsomeres are at the macromolecular scale and are typically visualized using electron microscopy.
In many viruses, yes. However, in some complex viruses (like herpesviruses), there can be different types of capsomeres (e.g., hexons and pentons).
A structural subunit of a virus capsid.
Capsomere is usually technical/scientific in register.
Capsomere: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkapsəmɪə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkæpsəˌmɪr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'CAPSule building-unit': CAPSOMERE.
Conceptual Metaphor
A BRICK IN A SHELL. The capsid is a protective shell, and each capsomere is a brick that builds it.
Practice
Quiz
What is a capsomere?