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Compound

KOM-pownd (noun), kuhm-POWND (verb) /ˈkɒmpaʊnd/ (noun), /kəmˈpaʊnd/ (verb)

nounverbB1SATGRE

FormalScientific

(noun) A substance formed when two or more chemical elements are chemically bonded together in fixed proportions; (verb) To make something worse or more intense, or to mix or combine.

In chemistry, 'compound' specifically refers to substances with a definite chemical formula, unlike mixtures. As a verb, it often implies adding to or exacerbating a problem.

The story behind the word. The word 'compound' traces back to the Latin verb 'componere,' meaning 'to put together' or 'to combine.' This Latin root is formed from 'com-' (together) and 'ponere' (to place). In chemistry, this perfectly describes how elements are 'placed together' or 'combined' to form a new substance with distinct properties.

Word relationships

Mixture: A physical combination of substances, not chemically bonded.
Blend: Often implies a smooth or harmonious mixture, less scientific than 'compound'.

Element: A pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler chemical substances.
Separate: To divide or disconnect.

Commonly confused with

Mixture: A 'compound' involves chemical bonds between elements, forming a new substance; a 'mixture' involves substances physically combined without chemical bonding.

Word family

compounded (adjective): Made up of several parts; (of a problem) made worse.
compounding (noun/adjective): The act of combining; making something worse.

Collocations

chemical compound
organic compound
inorganic compound
compound interest
compound fracture

Idioms & expressions

compound a problem

Example sentences

"Water is a simple compound, consisting of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom chemically bonded." Water is a common chemical compound.
"The company's initial losses were compounded by a sudden drop in consumer confidence, leading to further financial woes." The financial difficulties were compounded by the economic downturn.

Memory hook

Think of 'compound' as 'com-bined' elements, put together to form something new. Com-bined parts

When not to use

Do not use 'compound' (noun) to refer to a simple mixture where substances retain their individual properties and are not chemically bonded.

Fun facts

The term 'compound' is also used in finance (compound interest) and grammar (compound sentences, compound words).
There are millions of known chemical compounds, far outnumbering the known elements.