allotrope

[ al-uh-trohp ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. one of two or more existing forms of an element:

   Graphite and diamond are allotropes of carbon.

allotrope

/ ˈæləˌtrəʊp /

noun

1. any of two or more physical forms in which an element can exist

   diamond and graphite are allotropes of carbon

allotrope

/ ăl′ə-trōp′ /

1. Any of several crystalline forms of a chemical element. Charcoal, graphite, and diamond are all allotropes of carbon.

Word History and Origins

Origin of allotrope¹

First recorded in 1885–90; allo- + -trope

Related Words

• gem
• jewel
• rhinestone