crown

A molecular entity comprising a monocyclic ligand assembly that contains three or more binding sites held together by covalent bonds and capable of binding a guest in a central (or nearly central) position. The adducts formed are sometimes known as 'coronates'. The best known members of this group are macrocyclic polyethers, such as '18-crown-6', containing several repeating units –CR2–CR2O– (where R is most commonly H), and known as crown ethers.
C01421
See also: host
Source:
PAC, 1994, 66, 1077 (Glossary of terms used in physical organic chemistry (IUPAC Recommendations 1994)) on page 1101
See also:
PAC, 1995, 67, 1307 (Glossary of class names of organic compounds and reactivity intermediates based on structure (IUPAC Recommendations 1995)) on page 1328