the process whereby a protein molecule assumes its intricate three-dimensional shape
"understanding protein folding is the next step in deciphering the genetic code"
The action of folding; a fold.
"The delicate art of origami relies on precise folding to transform flat paper into complex shapes."
In plain English: Folding is when you bend something flat so it can be stored away easily.
"The folding chair collapsed when he sat down on it in the park."
present participle of fold
"The folding laundry took up most of the bathroom counter while I waited for my coffee to brew."
In plain English: To fold something means to bend it so that parts lie on top of each other, usually by creasing along an edge or line.
"The woman spent her afternoon folding laundry while listening to music."
Designed to fold; as a folding bed, a folding bicycle, a folding chair, etc.
"The camping trip required us to carry only lightweight gear like our folding chairs and folding kayak."
In plain English: Folding describes something that is made to be bent and folded up for easy storage or travel.
"She packed her clothes into compact folding chairs for the picnic."
Usage: Use the adjective form when describing an object specifically designed to collapse for storage or transport, such as a folding chair or table. This term distinguishes items that change shape from those made of rigid materials like standard beds or desks.
The word folding is formed by combining the verb fold with the suffix -ing to indicate an ongoing action or state. It entered English directly from its Germanic roots without a significant shift in meaning over time.