locant

noun

lo·​cant

ˈlōkənt

plural -s

: the portion of a chemical name that designates the position of an atom or group in a molecule (as β- in β-naphthylamine, m- in m-xylene, 2- in 2-butanol, or 1- in glucose-1-C¹⁴)

Word History

Etymology

location + -ant

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now