Dimerizing

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. Joining two identical molecular units together to form a single larger compound called a dimer
2. Combining a pair of similar molecules into one bonded structure, a process central to many chemical reactions
3. Linking two monomer molecules into a paired unit, as occurs in certain proteins and chemical syntheses

Etymology: "Dimerizing" is the present participle of "dimerize," which chemists use for the process of two identical molecules joining into a single larger unit. The verb is built from "dimer," itself a coinage from the Greek prefix "di-" (two) and the "-mer" element meaning a part or unit, to which the suffix "-ize" has been added to turn a noun into a verb of making or becoming. The suffix has a long pedigree. It passed from ancient Greek "-ῐ́ζω" into Late Latin "-izare," then through Middle French "-iser" into Middle English "-isen," and eventually settled into modern English "-ize." Its earlier life was in verbs like "baptize" and "civilize," so chemists borrowed a familiar tool and attached it to a newly made noun.