cross-linker: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “cross-linker” mean?
A chemical substance or agent that creates bonds between different molecular chains.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A chemical substance or agent that creates bonds between different molecular chains.
A substance that forms connections between polymer chains, strengthening the material; by extension, a person or thing that connects different groups or ideas.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant orthographic differences. Usage is equally specialized in both varieties.
Connotations
Purely technical in both varieties. No connotative differences.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language. Frequency is identical in scientific contexts between BrE and AmE.
Grammar
How to Use “cross-linker” in a Sentence
[SUBJECT] acts as a cross-linker[SUBJECT] serves as a cross-linker between [OBJECT]The addition of a cross-linker to [MATERIAL]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cross-linker” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The cross-linker compound was added dropwise.
- We observed a cross-linker effect on the gel's stability.
American English
- The cross-linker solution was prepared fresh.
- A cross-linker reaction was initiated by heating.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; potentially used in R&D or materials manufacturing sectors.
Academic
Common in chemistry, materials science, polymer engineering, and biochemistry texts.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
The primary context. Refers to specific chemicals like glutaraldehyde or hexamethylene diisocyanate.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cross-linker”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cross-linker”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cross-linker”
- Spelling as one word ('crosslinker') - hyphenated form is standard.
- Using in non-technical contexts where 'connector' or 'link' would suffice.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is standardly hyphenated: cross-linker.
No, 'cross-linker' is exclusively a noun. The related verb is 'to cross-link'.
No, it is a highly specialised technical term used primarily in chemistry and materials science.
Think of it like the rungs on a ladder that connect the two side rails, or staples holding separate sheets of paper together.
Cross-linker is usually technical/scientific in register.
Cross-linker: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrɒs ˈlɪŋkə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkrɔːs ˈlɪŋkər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'link' in a chain. A 'CROSS-linker' makes links that go ACROSS between separate chains, tying them together.
Conceptual Metaphor
BRIDGING/CONNECTING (A cross-linker is a bridge between molecular islands.)
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the term 'cross-linker' most appropriately used?