conformation
Meaning
The particular shape or structure of something, especially a complex molecule.
The act of conforming or adapting to rules, standards, or conditions.
Structure
Usage
The drug's effectiveness depends on the precise conformation of its protein target.
His strict conformation to the company's dress code was noted by management.
Studying the conformation of these organic molecules helps predict their chemical reactivity.
Etymology
The word 'conformation' is built from Latin components, directly entering English in the late Middle Ages. The core root 'form' originates from the Latin 'forma', likely related to the Greek 'morphē', both carrying the fundamental sense of "shape" or "appearance". The prefix 'con-' intensifies this, implying a "bringing together into shape". Originally used in theological contexts to mean "adaptation" or "compliance", its scientific application to describe the three-dimensional structure of molecules emerged in the 20th century, logically extending the concept of "shape" to the atomic arrangement.
Analysis
- con: A Latin prefix meaning "together, with". - form: A Latin root from "forma", meaning "shape, mold, appearance". - ation: A Latin-derived suffix forming nouns indicating an action or its result.