dimer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “dimer” mean?
A molecule or compound formed by the combination of two identical smaller molecules (monomers).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A molecule or compound formed by the combination of two identical smaller molecules (monomers).
More broadly, any structure consisting of two identical subunits. In materials science, it can refer to a pair of atoms or molecules bound together. In virology, a dimer can refer to a protein complex made of two identical subunits.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
None beyond the scientific context.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects, confined to specialized fields.
Grammar
How to Use “dimer” in a Sentence
[SUBSTANCE] forms a dimera dimer of [SUBSTANCE]the [SUBSTANCE] dimerVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dimer” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The acetic acid molecules dimerise in solution.
- The enzyme is known to dimerise under these conditions.
American English
- The acetic acid molecules dimerize in solution.
- The protein will dimerize upon binding.
adjective
British English
- The dimeric state of the receptor is essential for function.
- They observed a dimeric complex.
American English
- The dimeric form of the protein is more stable.
- Dimeric structures were analyzed by X-ray.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Common in chemistry, biochemistry, and materials science papers.
Everyday
Extremely rare; would only be used by someone with a relevant scientific background.
Technical
The primary context of use, describing molecular structures and interactions.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dimer”
- Using 'dimer' to refer to any two-part object outside of chemistry/biochemistry.
- Confusing 'dimer' (two identical units) with 'heterodimer' (two different units).
- Misspelling as 'dimmer' (a device for lights).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a specialized scientific term with very low frequency in general English.
A dimer consists of two monomer units, while a polymer consists of many (often thousands) of monomer units.
Yes, the process is called 'dimerization' (US) / 'dimerisation' (UK), so you can say molecules 'dimerize'/'dimerise'.
Primarily, but it is also standard in biochemistry, molecular biology, virology, and materials science to describe paired identical subunits.
A molecule or compound formed by the combination of two identical smaller molecules (monomers).
Dimer is usually technical/scientific in register.
Dimer: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdaɪ.mər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdaɪ.mɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'di-' meaning two (like in bicycle) and '-mer' meaning part (like in polymer). A dimer is a two-part structure.
Conceptual Metaphor
A HANDBRAKE FOR A BIKE - Two identical parts (hands/brake levers) coming together to form a functional unit.
Practice
Quiz
What is the defining characteristic of a dimer?