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Definition of subunit
subunit
/ˈsʌbˌjuː.nɪt/
sub · u · nit
Plural:subunits
subunit Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
10
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
3
subunit Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
A distinct, self-contained division, section, or component that forms part of a larger whole or unit.
Example
"Each administrative subunit within the agency is responsible for managing its own annual budget."
2
In biochemistry, a single protein molecule that assembles with other protein molecules to form a functional multiprotein complex.
Example
"Adult human hemoglobin is a tetramer composed of two alpha and two beta polypeptide subunits."
Synonyms
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Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Subunit. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/subunit