chemistry

[ kem-uh-stree ]

noun

, plural chem·is·tries.

1. the science that deals with the composition and properties of substances and various elementary forms of matter. Compare element ( def 2 ).
2. chemical properties, reactions, phenomena, etc.:

   the chemistry of carbon.

3. the interaction of one personality with another:

   The chemistry between him and his boss was all wrong.

4. sympathetic understanding; rapport:

   the astonishing chemistry between the actors.

5. any or all of the elements that make up something:

   the chemistry of love.

chemistry

/ ˈkɛmɪstrɪ /

noun

1. the branch of physical science concerned with the composition, properties, and reactions of substances See also inorganic chemistry organic chemistry physical chemistry
2. the composition, properties, and reactions of a particular substance
3. the nature and effects of any complex phenomenon

   the chemistry of humour

4. informal.
   a reaction, taken to be instinctual, between two persons

chemistry

/ kĕm′ĭ-strē /

1. The scientific study of the structure, properties, and reactions of the chemical elements and the compounds they form.
2. The composition, structure, properties, and reactions of a substance.

chemistry

1. The study of the composition, properties, and reactions of matter , particularly at the level of atoms and molecules .

Word History and Origins

Origin of chemistry¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; chemist + -ry; replacing earlier chymistry, chimistry

Word History and Origins

Origin of chemistry¹

C17: from earlier chimistrie, from chimist chemist

Example Sentences

It’s not what you heard or how much; it was how hearing and noticing can change your chemistry.

From Los Angeles Times

And there remains a great deal of territory to explore explaining this "supramolecular" chemistry of latent pores.

From Science Daily

Unfortunately, Johnson and Evans have a dearth of screen chemistry.

From Los Angeles Times

They used to do things like have chemistry tests and ways for you to get to know your castmates beforehand.

From Los Angeles Times

Connor and Zegler are radiant as the young lovers, though the chemistry between them is more of an idea than a palpable reality.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• appeal
• beauty
• charisma
• glamour
• grace
• magic