'Meso-' definitions:

Definition of 'Meso-'

From: GCIDE
  • Meso- \Mes"o-\, Mes- \Mes-\ [Gr. me`sos in the middle.]
  • 1. A combining form denoting in the middle, intermediate. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. specif. (Chem.), Denoting a type of hydrocarbons which are regarded as methenyl derivatives. Also used adjectively. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Chem.) Optically inactive due to compensating optical activity at two or more asymmetric centers, often due to a plane of symmetry within the molecular structure; as, meso-tartaric acid. [PJC]
  • 4. Attached to a carbon atom located between two hereoatoms in a heterocyclic ring. [PJC]