1. very large molecules composed of many atoms, typically with a molecular weight greater than 1,000 daltons; includes proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.
Usage: plural form; commonly used in biochemistry and biology; often studied in high school and college science courses

Examples

• Proteins and DNA are examples of macromolecules found in all living cells.
• The four main types of macromolecules are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
• Macromolecules are built from smaller units called monomers linked together in chains.
• Students learned how macromolecules are essential for life processes such as growth and energy storage.
• The structure of macromolecules determines their function in the body.
• Enzymes, which are macromolecules, speed up chemical reactions in cells.