Definition

1. Noun:
   • The scientific study of the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter: This is the primary academic meaning, referring to the branch of the natural sciences.
   • The chemical composition, structure, properties, and reactions of a particular substance: This meaning refers to the specific makeup and behavior of an object or material.
   • The complex emotional or psychological interaction between people; rapport: This figurative meaning describes the dynamic, often intangible, quality of a relationship.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Scientific Field):
  • She majored in chemistry and now works in a laboratory.
  • The professor is teaching a course in organic chemistry.
• Noun (Substance Properties):
  • Researchers are studying the chemistry of this new polymer.
  • Understanding the soil chemistry is crucial for successful farming.
• Noun (Interpersonal Dynamic):
  • The actors had great chemistry on screen, making their romance believable.
  • There was an instant chemistry between them when they first met.

Advanced Usage

• "Chemical chemistry": This phrase is generally redundant in standard usage, as "chemistry" inherently relates to chemicals. It might be used for emphasis in specific technical contexts to distinguish from other types of "chemistry" (e.g., interpersonal).
• "The chemistry is right/wrong": A common idiom to describe whether a personal relationship has a good or bad dynamic.
  • The band members knew the chemistry was right from their first rehearsal.

Variants and Related Words

• Chemical (adj): Of or relating to chemistry.
  • A chemical reaction.
• Chemist (n): A scientist who specializes in chemistry; (British English) a pharmacist.
  • The chemist discovered a new element.
• Biochemistry (n): The branch of science concerned with the chemical processes within living organisms.
  • She works in the field of biochemistry.

Synonyms

• Alchemy (archaic/figurative): Especially when referring to a mysterious or transformative interaction. (e.g., "the mysterious alchemy of their friendship").
• Rapport: Specifically for the interpersonal meaning.
• Interaction: A more general term for the interpersonal dynamic.

Related Phrases

• Chemistry set: A kit of tools and chemicals for simple experiments.
  • He got a chemistry set for his birthday.
• Chemistry lab/laboratory: A room or building equipped for chemical experiments.
  • The experiment must be conducted in the chemistry lab.

Related Idioms

• Have chemistry (with someone): To have a natural, often romantic or sympathetic, connection with someone.
  • Many fans believe the two co-stars have real chemistry.
• The chemistry works/doesn't work: Describes whether a group's interpersonal dynamic is effective.
  • For a team to succeed, the chemistry has to work.

Noun

1. the way two individuals relate to each other
   • their chemistry was wrong from the beginning -- they hated each other
   • a mysterious alchemy brought them together
2. the chemical composition and properties of a substance or object
   • the chemistry of soil
3. the science of matter; the branch of the natural sciences dealing with the composition of substances and their properties and reactions