Inorganic
/ˌɪnɔːrˈɡænɪk/
Definitions
2 meaningsRelating to or denoting compounds that are not organic, especially those not containing carbon-hydrogen bonds.
/ˌɪnɔːrˈɡænɪk/
Not derived from living organisms; not containing carbon compounds.
The textbook covers both organic and inorganic chemistry.
💡 Simply: It's like saying something is not made from plants or animals. Think about rocks – they're inorganic!
👶 For kids: Not from things that are or were alive. Like a rock, it's not made of plants or animals.
More Examples
Calcium carbonate, a common inorganic compound, is used in building materials.
Inorganic fertilizers are used to help plants grow, though some prefer organic ones.
How It's Used
"The scientist studied the properties of inorganic compounds."
"Minerals are typically inorganic substances found in the earth's crust."
Lacking the organization and complexity typical of living organisms; not composed of organic tissues or their derivatives.
/ˌɪnɔːrˈɡænɪk/
Lacking the characteristics of living organisms.
The cold, inorganic surface of the metal left her feeling detached.
💡 Simply: Something that doesn't act like a living thing. It's more like a machine or a structure.
👶 For kids: Not alive or not having life-like qualities. Like a robot, it’s not alive, but it can still move and do things.
More Examples
The art piece, with its geometric forms, was meant to invoke an inorganic aesthetic.
How It's Used
"The robotic arm performed its functions with an inorganic precision."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
From Late Latin *inorganicus*, from *in-* (not) + *organicus* (organic). The term initially referred to substances not derived from living organisms. The meaning later expanded within chemistry and geology.
The term was initially used to distinguish materials from living organisms, as the understanding of organic chemistry developed.
Memory tip
Think of 'in-' as 'not' and 'organic' as 'living'. Inorganic means 'not from living things'.
Word Origin
"not of or from living organisms"