covalent

adjective

co·​va·​lent ˌkō-ˈvā-lənt How to pronounce covalent (audio)
ˈkō-ˌvā-
: of, relating to, or characterized by covalent bonds
covalently
ˌkō-ˈvā-lənt-lē How to pronounce covalent (audio)
ˈkō-ˌvā-
adverb

Examples of covalent in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Material science researchers have developed highly porous crystalline materials, known as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs), capable of efficiently capturing water vapor from the atmosphere—even in extremely dry conditions. — Kristan Hawkins, Newsweek, 6 Feb. 2025 The team’s research into covalent organic frameworks has been ongoing for about 20 years. — Rudy Molinek, Smithsonian Magazine, 22 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1926, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of covalent was circa 1926

Phrases Containing covalent

Rhymes for covalent

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Browse Nearby Words

covalent
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Cite this Entry

“Covalent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/covalent. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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