adjective / noun / verb
conjugate
Linked with another member in a defined pair.
An acid and its conjugate base differ by one proton.
Etymology
The Latin verb means to yoke together. Conjugate applies that pairing image to members joined by a defined relationship, whether in mathematics, language, or another field.
More examples
- The complex conjugate of 3 + 2i is 3 − 2i.
- These bacteria conjugate and transfer DNA through direct contact.
- Scientists conjugate the antibody to a fluorescent dye.
Forms
conjugate · conjugates · conjugated · conjugating
conjugation noun — The joining of cells or molecules.
Similar words
- paired
- Broader; does not necessarily imply a defined technical relationship.
- counterpart
- Suggests a corresponding role rather than a formally defined pairing.