subunit
nounUK /ˌsʌbˈjuːnɪt/
US /ˌsʌbˈjuːnɪt/
A subunit is a small part that helps make up a bigger whole.
Each subunit of the toy robot can be taken apart and put back together.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A smaller group that is part of a larger organization.
The local team is a subunit of the national club.
3. One of the separate protein chains that together form a complete molecule.
The enzyme is made of four identical subunits.
4. A section of a vaccine that triggers the body's defense system.
The new shot is a subunit vaccine, so it uses only a small piece of the germ.