This fine word is often used by molecular biologists and protein chemists to describe proteins that are comprised of separate subunits. However, this word has a long and distinguished history outside of biology, as I recalled when I found it in a crossword puzzle in a book published by Dell;
Moiety (MOY-uh-tee) [Old French meitiet, from Late Latin medietas, from Latin medius, "middle."]
n.
- One of two equal parts; a half.
- An indefinite part; a small portion or share.
- One of two basic tribal subdivisions.
Usage: Tom divided the cake and Becky ate with good appetite, while Tom nibbled at his moiety.
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That's because certain journal editors frown on the use of "gizmo" and "doohickey". Don't make me name names.
It's all over Shakespeare, too. ;)
Moiety was my PhD advisor's favorite word :)
Strangely, it was also the name of a group of rebels in the computer game Riven. I never quite understood that.
Have you tried 'pflurg'?