desymmetrization

noun

Any reaction that results in the loss of one or more symmetry elements, but especially the conversion of a prochiral molecule into a chiral one

OriginEnglish symmetrization ← Latin dē- ← Proto-Italic *dē →
Scrabble 33
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Meanings

noundesymmetrization (plural desymmetrizations)

plural desymmetrizations

  1. chemistryAny reaction that results in the loss of one or more symmetry elements, but especially the conversion of a prochiral molecule into a chiral one

Origin

  1. Proto-Indo-European*de
  2. Proto-Indo-European*déh₁
  3. Proto-Italic*dē
  4. Latindē
  5. Latindē-
  6. Englishde-
  7. Englishsymmetrization
  8. Englishdesymmetrization

From de- + symmetrization.

Full word history & related roots →
Cite this entry
APA

desymmetrization. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 3, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/desymmetrization

MLA

“desymmetrization.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/desymmetrization. Accessed November 3, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “desymmetrization,” accessed November 3, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/desymmetrization.

Source: desymmetrization on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.