covalent bond

[ koh-vey-luhnt bond ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. the bond formed by the sharing of a pair of electrons by two atoms.

covalent bond

noun

1. a type of chemical bond involving the sharing of electrons between atoms in a molecule, esp the sharing of a pair of electrons by two adjacent atoms

covalent bond

/ kō-vā′lənt /

1. A chemical bond formed when electrons are shared between two atoms. Usually each atom contributes one electron to form a pair of electrons that are shared by both atoms.
2. See more at coordinate bond

covalent bond

1. A chemical bond in which two atoms share some of their valence electrons , thereby creating a force that holds the atoms together.

Notes

Many molecules in living systems are held together by covalent bonds.

Word History and Origins

Origin of covalent bond¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

In both cases, the enzymes form a strong, covalent bond with the carrier material, which can't be dissociated.

From Science Daily

Azide groups form a robust covalent bond with graphite through a chemical reaction facilitated by ultraviolet light, ensuring the structural integrity of graphite during its expansion and contraction.

From Science Daily

This was in the correct position to form a strong covalent bond with the amino acid previously attached to the second strand.

From Scientific American

In the early 20th century, German chemists such as Walter Heitler and Fritz London showed the covalent bond could be understood using quantum mechanics.

From Scientific American

The rings are not connected by a covalent bond, but instead form a different kind of linkage called a mechanical bond, in which the connected rings can move freely around each other.

From Nature