star macromolecule

A macromolecule containing a single branch point from which linear chains (arms) emanate.

Notes:

A star macromolecule with $n$ linear chains (arms) attached to the branch point is termed an $n$ -star macromolecule, e.g. five-star macromolecule.
If the arms of a star macromolecule are identical with respect to constitution and degree of polymerization, the macromolecule is termed a regular star macromolecule.
If different arms of a star macromolecule are composed of different monomeric units, the macromolecule is termed a variegated star macromolecule.

Source:

PAC, 1996, 68, 2287 (Glossary of basic terms in polymer science (IUPAC Recommendations 1996)) on page 2296

Also contains definitions of: n-star macromolecule, regular star macromolecule, variegated star macromolecule