electrophilic

[ih-lek-truh-fil-ik]

adjective Chemistry.

of or relating to electron acceptance in covalent bonding (opposed to nucleophilic).

Origin of electrophilic

First recorded in 1940–45; electr(on) + -o- + -philic

Related formse·lec·tro·phil·i·cal·ly, adverb

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British Dictionary definitions for electrophilic

electrophilic

adjective

chem having or involving an affinity for negative charge. Electrophilic reagents (electrophiles) are atoms, molecules, and ions that behave as electron acceptorsCompare nucleophilic

Derived Formselectrophile (ɪˈlɛktrəʊˌfaɪl), noun

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