organic chemistry

American  

noun

1. the branch of chemistry, originally limited to substances found only in living organisms, dealing with the compounds of carbon.

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organic chemistry British  

noun

1. the branch of chemistry concerned with the compounds of carbon: originally confined to compounds produced by living organisms but now extended to include man-made substances based on carbon, such as plastics Compare inorganic chemistry

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organic chemistry Scientific  

1. The branch of chemistry that deals with carbon and organic compounds, especially hydrocarbons.

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organic chemistry Cultural  

1. The branch of chemistry dealing with organic molecules (see also organic molecule).

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Etymology

Origin of organic chemistry

First recorded in 1870–75

Compare meaning

How does organic-chemistry compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• organic chemistry vs. inorganic chemistry

Example Sentences

Kyei studied chemistry at Oxford University and was also awarded a junior research fellowship by Princeton University in organic chemistry.

From BBC

Panpsychists believe that all forms of matter, however small, contain elements of consciousness, and that life as many define it is simply made up of extremely complex forms of consciousness created via organic chemistry.

From Salon

Boronic acid has been used in organic chemistry for decades, even though it is not present in any organism.

From Science Daily

"The synthesis of quaternary carbons, however, is a long-standing challenge in the field of organic chemistry, typically requiring numerous steps and relying on harsh conditions or less accessible starting materials."

From Science Daily

“Zach tells me about his organic chemistry class, about being a student in 2024. I afford Zach an opportunity to share with me what it’s like to be him, and vice versa.”

From New York Times