1. Originally, a half; now, loosely, a portion of something. 2. Functional group. [M.E. moite, a half]
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moi·ety 'mȯi-ət-ē n, pl -eties one of the portions into which something is divided <the hemoglobin molecule contains four heme moieties (Lionel Whitby)>
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moi·e·ty (moiґə-te) [Fr. moitiй, from L. medietas, medius, middle] any equal part; a half; also any part or portion.Medical dictionary. 2011.