Molekül
/moleˈkyːl/neuter
The English word molecule is translated into German as Molekül.
Molekül is a neuter noun used to refer to a group of atoms held together by chemical bonds.
Meaning: group of atoms held together by chemical bonds (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Molekül is Moleküle. If you need to use the genitive singular form, which means "of the molecule", use des Moleküls.
How do you pronounce it?
/moleˈkyːl/
Did you know?
- While Molekül refers to the chemical unit, Germans use the word Teilchen as a broader term to describe any 'particle' including subatomic ones.
- The German word Molekül shares a common ancestor with the French word molécule, which was adopted into German science through French influence.
- The German word Molekül uses the ü umlaut, but in old scientific texts or when the character is unavailable, it is sometimes written as Molekuel.
Examples in context
- Ein Molekül besteht aus Atomen.A molecule is made up of atoms.This sentence is useful for describing what a Molekül is made of.Tatoeba #772870 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #681505 by Source_VOA
- Dieses Molekül hat eine Kristallstruktur.This molecule has a crystalline structure.This sentence is useful for describing the crystalline structure of a Molekül.Tatoeba #676163 by Esperantostern, translation #643277 by darinmex
- Jedes Molekül in unserem Körper hat eine einzigartige Form.Each molecule in our body has a unique shape.This sentence is useful for describing the unique shape of a Molekül in the human body.Tatoeba #772872 by al_ex_an_der, translation #681504 by Source_VOA
- Ein Molekül besteht aus mehreren Atomen.A molecule consists of several atoms.
- Der Aufbau des Moleküls ist von entscheidender Bedeutung.The structure of the molecule is of crucial significance.
- Die Moleküle interagieren miteinander.The molecules interact with each other.
- 9 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hannah and Julian are studying chemistry together in a library.
- HannahWie sieht dieses Molekül auf dem Bildschirm aus?What does this molecule look like on the screen?
- JulianEs sieht aus wie ein kleines Netzwerk.It looks like a small network.
- HannahIst das Molekül sehr stabil?Is the molecule very stable?
- JulianJa, die Bindungen sind sehr stark.Yes, the bonds are very strong.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “molecule” translations and entries Molekül, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Molekül, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.