macromolecule

noun

mac·​ro·​mol·​e·​cule ˌma-krō-ˈmä-li-ˌkyü(ə)l How to pronounce macromolecule (audio)
: a very large molecule (as of a protein or rubber)
macromolecular
ˌma-krō-mə-ˈle-kyə-lər How to pronounce macromolecule (audio)
adjective

Examples of macromolecule in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This is likely due to efforts by manufacturers to address fiber deficiencies by using ingredients such as pseudo-cereals, such as amaranth and quinoa hydrocolloids – meaning water-soluble macromolecules used in gluten-free baked goods made with quinoa flour. — Sachin Rustgi, The Conversation, 18 Feb. 2025 Nature published Langer’s paper three months later, demonstrating for the first time that non-inflammatory polymers could enable the sustained release of proteins and other macromolecules. — IEEE Spectrum, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Makromolekel (later Makromolekül), from makro- macro- + Molekel, Molekül molecule

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of macromolecule was in 1924

Rhymes for macromolecule

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Browse Nearby Words

macromesentery
macromolecule
macro-moth
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Cite this Entry

“Macromolecule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/macromolecule. Accessed 20 Apr. 2025.

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Medical Definition

macromolecule

noun
mac·​ro·​mol·​e·​cule ˌmak-rō-ˈmäl-i-ˌkyü(ə)l How to pronounce macromolecule (audio)
: a very large molecule (as of a protein, nucleic acid, or rubber) built up from smaller chemical structures compare micromolecule
macromolecular
-mə-ˈlek-yə-lər How to pronounce macromolecule (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on macromolecule

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about macromolecule

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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