ENGLISH
REFERENCE

mer

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈmɛɹ// mer Archaic

n. a single unit or part that can join with others to form a long chain. Scientists use these small pieces to build larger structures called polymers.

n. a single molecule that can undergo polymerisation, thereby contributing constitutional units to the essential structure of a macromolecule. Often used in technical contexts to describe the repeating structural unit of a polymer.


SIMPLE

Each mer in the chain is identical to the next.

CONTEXTUAL

The chemical properties of the resulting plastic depend heavily on the specific mer used during the synthesis process.

COMPLEX

By altering the arrangement of each individual mer within the copolymer, engineers can fine-tune the material's elasticity and thermal resistance for industrial applications.

Synonyms
Etymology 1

Clipping of polymer.

Etymology 2

See mayor.

Usage

Commonly appears as a suffix in terms like 'monomer', 'polymer', or 'isomer' rather than as a standalone word in general English.

© 2026 English Reference