conformation
conformation Lexical Profile
conformation Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The shape, structure, or symmetrical arrangement of the parts of a body or object, especially the proportional physical build of an animal such as a horse or dog.
"The judges evaluated each thoroughbred on its gait, temperament, and overall skeletal conformation."
Any of the spatial arrangements of atoms in a molecule that can be interconverted strictly by rotation around single covalent bonds (in chemistry and biochemistry).
"Changes in pH can cause the enzyme to fold into an inactive conformation."
The act of adapting or conforming something to a particular standard, pattern, or environment.
"The gradual conformation of local laws to international treaties required years of legislative debate."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'conformation' (physical shape, anatomical build, or molecular structure) with 'confirmation' (verification of truth or validity) or 'conformity' (compliance with social standards or rules).
• Rhymes for conformation
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the early 15th century from Middle French or directly from Latin conformatio ('a shaping, symmetrically arranged structure'), from the verb conformare ('to fashion, form, or shape').