noun Chemistry.
- one of two or more existing forms of an element: Graphite and diamond are allotropes of carbon.
noun
- any of two or more physical forms in which an element can existdiamond and graphite are allotropes of carbon
1847, back-formation from allotropy “variation of physical properties without change of substance,” from allo- + -tropy “manner” (see -trope). Related: Allotropic.
n.
- A structurally differentiated form of an element that exhibits allotropism.
- Any of several crystalline forms of a chemical element. Charcoal, graphite, and diamond are all allotropes of carbon.