univalent

[ yoo-nuh-vey-luhnt, yoo-niv-uh- ]

adjective

1. Chemistry. having a valence of one; monovalent.
2. Genetics. (of a chromosome) single; unpaired; not possessing or joining its homologous chromosome in synapsis.

univalent

/ juːˈnɪvələnt; ˌjuːnɪˈveɪlənt /

adjective

1. (of a chromosome during meiosis) not paired with its homologue
2. chem another word for monovalent

univalent

/ yo̅o̅′nĭ-vā′lənt /

1. Having a valence of 1.

Derived Forms

• ˌuniˈvalency, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of univalent¹

First recorded in 1865–70; uni- + -valent

Example Sentences

Univalent hydrogen and divalent oxygen will then have the symbols H- and -O-.

From Project Gutenberg

A divalent element, on the other hand, will combine with two atoms of a univalent element.

From Project Gutenberg

Silver acts as a univalent element and calcium as a divalent element in the formation of their respective nitrates and chlorides.

From Project Gutenberg

As will be shown later in the chapter, the group NH4 in this compound acts as a univalent radical and is known as ammonium.

From Project Gutenberg

These compounds, when dissolved in water, dissociate in such a way as to form simple, univalent metallic ions which are colorless.

From Project Gutenberg