epimer

noun

epi·​mer ˈe-pi-mər 

: either of two stereoisomers that differ in the arrangement of groups on a single asymmetric carbon atom (such as the first chiral center of a sugar's carbon chain)

epimeric

ˌe-pi-ˈmer-ik 

adjective

Word History

Etymology

epi- + isomer

First Known Use

circa 1911, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

epimer

noun

epi·​mer ˈep-i-mər 

: either of the stereoisomers of a sugar or sugar derivative that differ in the arrangement of the hydrogen atom and the hydroxyl group on the first asymmetric carbon atom of a chain

epimeric

ˌep-i-ˈmer-ik 

adjective