total synthesis

noun

The synthesis of a complex organic compound (especially a naturally occurring one) from simple, readily available compounds.

Meanings

nountotal synthesis (plural total syntheses)

plural total syntheses

  1. chemistryThe synthesis of a complex organic compound (especially a naturally occurring one) from simple, readily available compounds.
Cite this entry
APA

total synthesis. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 4, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/total%20synthesis

MLA

“total synthesis.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/total%20synthesis. Accessed November 4, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “total synthesis,” accessed November 4, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/total%20synthesis.

Source: total synthesis on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.